NAGINI IN THE RIDDLE HOUSE

Draft Sketch for Chapter 1 of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (1999)
Mary GrandPré (American, b. 1954)
Pencil on parchment tracing paper
Signed lower right: Mary GrandPré 1999
14 cm x 16 cm
£4,500 (excl. VAT)

This original preliminary pencil sketch, created by Mary GrandPré in 1999, served as the draft artwork for the opening chapter of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. The final published illustration differs slightly, notably in the placement of Nagini, the snake, which is positioned behind the chair in this preliminary study.

Chapter 1 introduces readers to the eerie Riddle House, a once-stately manor perched above the village of Little Hangleton. Now dilapidated, with boarded windows, missing roof tiles, and creeping ivy, it holds a dark past. Half a century earlier, the entire Riddle family was found mysteriously dead—perfectly healthy yet lifeless—while their gardener, Frank Bryce, was wrongfully suspected and later released for lack of evidence.

Years later, Frank remains employed at the house by its new owner. One fateful night, he glimpses strange lights in an upper window and ventures inside. Through an open door, he overhears Lord Voldemort and Wormtail conversing, with Nagini slithering beneath the chair—marking the first introduction of the snake in the series. Upon noticing Frank, Voldemort invites him in before ruthlessly ending his life. GrandPré’s sketch captures the chilling scene Frank might have witnessed through the doorway.

Condition & Provenance
In excellent condition, the artwork bears minor wear and subtle wrinkles, natural to the artist’s creative process. It has been professionally preserved, mounted on museum-quality board with mats and protective covers.

Catalogue Reference: Houston & GrandPré C(1)