ORDER OF THE PHOENIX – HARRY IN THE DEPARTMENT OF MYSTERIES

Mary GrandPré (American, b. 1954)
Preliminary Cover Concept for Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, 2002
Pencil on parchment tracing paper
Signed lower right: Mary GrandPré
Dated lower left: 2002
23 cm x 15 cm
£15,000 (excl. VAT)



This original preliminary pencil sketch was created by Mary GrandPré in 2002 during the development of the U.S. cover artwork for Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. Executed on parchment tracing paper, the composition depicts a full-body image of Harry Potter as he enters the door to the Department of Mysteries at the Ministry of Magic—an emotionally pivotal moment in the narrative.

This concept, intended to appear on the upper dust jacket wrap (the portion most visible to readers on shelves), captures Harry in a moment of courageous uncertainty. Believing he is about to rescue Sirius Black from Voldemort, Harry steps into the shadowy unknown—only to confront a devastating truth. It is within these mysterious halls that the prophecy is revealed, answering at last why Voldemort sought to kill Harry as an infant.

The sketch features GrandPré’s early rendering of the now-iconic Harry Potter title font, and showcases her signature atmospheric style—an evocative blend of character and tension rendered in precise pencil work.

Provenance & Condition
This work is in excellent condition. Minor wear and light creasing may be visible, consistent with the artist’s original working process. Professionally preserved since its creation in 2002, the sketch has been archivally mounted on museum-quality board with protective matting and cover.

Note
This original sketch offers a rare insight into Mary GrandPré’s creative process and her vital contribution to shaping the visual identity of the American Harry Potter editions. It represents an exceptional opportunity to own a developmental artwork tied to one of the most emotionally resonant moments in the series.

Catalogue Reference: Houston & GrandPré A(2)