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HARRY DIVING AWAY FROM A BEWITCHED CAULDRON
Preliminary Study for Chapter 5, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2002)
Mary GrandPré (American, b. 1954)
Pencil on parchment tracing paper
Signed lower right: Mary GrandPré
14 cm x 21 cm
£4,750 (excl. VAT)
Original preliminary pencil sketch on paper created by Mary GrandPré in 2002 as she prepared the title artwork for Chapter 5 of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, titled The Order of the Phoenix. This dynamic early composition captures the precise moment Harry dives out of the way as a large cauldron of stew, enchanted by Fred and George Weasley, rockets down the dinner table at Number Twelve Grimmauld Place.
Having left the Dursleys, Harry spends the remainder of the summer hidden within the Black family home, headquarters to the newly reformed Order of the Phoenix. During this time, he gains insight into the underground resistance preparing for Voldemort’s return, and learns that even the likes of Professor Snape have joined the effort. But amid the growing tension and secrecy, GrandPré chooses to illustrate one of the rare moments of chaos and levity: the Weasley twins' characteristic mischief and magical high jinks.
The sketch provides a vivid sense of motion and humor, with the long dining table and soaring cauldron adding a sense of barely-controlled magical energy—contrasting the heavy themes of suspicion and resistance that run through the chapter.
Condition & Provenance
Excellent condition. Minor signs of handling and light creasing, consistent with the artist’s working process. The piece has been professionally preserved since its creation in 2002. Mounted on museum-quality board with conservation-grade matting and protective cover.
Catalogue Reference: Houston & GrandPré D(2)