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 UNEXPECTED TASK
Preliminary Study for Chapter 22, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (1999)
Mary GrandPré (American, b. 1954)
Pencil on parchment tracing paper
Signed lower right: Mary GrandPré
22 cm x 15 cm
£4,000 (excl. VAT)
This original preliminary pencil sketch was created by Mary GrandPré in 1999 as she developed the chapter title artwork for Chapter 22 of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, titled The Unexpected Task. The final published artwork was slightly modified from this study: Ron’s hands are no longer covering his face, and a swirling mist envelops the figures, adding an ethereal quality.
The chapter’s title refers to the daunting challenge Harry and Ron face as they prepare to ask their respective dates to the Yule Ball. Here, Ron is depicted with his face buried in his hands after nervously asking Fleur Delacour, the Veela from Beauxbatons Academy, to the dance—and receiving a less-than-welcoming response. Ultimately, Harry summons the courage to invite Parvati Patil, while Ron grapples with the embarrassment of rejection.
Condition & Provenance
The artwork is in excellent condition, showing only minor wear and subtle wrinkles typical of the artist’s working process. It has been professionally preserved and mounted on museum-quality board with mats and protective covers.
Catalogue Reference: Houston & GrandPré C(6)