Purchasing this artwork only transfers ownership of the physical artwork. The right to reproduce the image, the right of copyright and intellectual property remain with the artist.
THE HOUSE OF GAUNT
Preliminary Study for Chapter 10 Artwork (2004)
Mary GrandPré (American, b. 1954)
Pencil on parchment tracing paper
Signed lower right: Mary GrandPré
Inscribed lower left: Book 6, Chapter 10
21 cm x 18 cm
£5,000 (excl. VAT)
Original preliminary pencil sketch on paper created by Mary GrandPré in 2004 as she prepared the title artwork for Chapter 10 of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, titled The House of Gaunt.
In this chapter, Harry accompanies Dumbledore on his first lesson with the headmaster, entering the memory of a wizard named Bob Ogden via the Pensive. Their goal is to uncover Voldemort’s past and intentions by revisiting key moments from his ancestry.
The haunting scene depicts the front of Marvolo Gaunt’s decrepit house, marked ominously by a dead snake nailed to the door. This powerful image symbolises the dark legacy of Voldemort’s lineage. The chapter also reveals crucial details about Voldemort’s mother, Merope Gaunt, and his father, the Muggle encountered on horseback. Additionally, two of Voldemort’s Horcruxes—the locket and the ring—are introduced, underscoring the significance of this location.
Mary GrandPré chose to capture this eerie and symbolic moment for the chapter’s artwork, emphasising the sinister history tied to the Gaunt family home.
Condition & Provenance
Excellent condition. Minor wear and light wrinkles consistent with the artist’s working process. Professionally preserved since its creation in 2004. Mounted on museum-quality board with archival mats and protective covers. Original preliminary pencil sketch on parchment tracing paper. Signed and dated lower right by Mary GrandPré.
Catalogue Reference: Houston & GrandPré E(7)