Rare Typescript of Le Petit Prince Auctioned

A rare typescript of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's 'Le Petit Prince', featuring extensive handwritten corrections by the author, is set to go on sale for $1.25 million. This unique artefact, one of only three known copies, contains what is thought to be the first written appearance of the famous line, 'It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; the essential is invisible to the eye.' Written during Saint-Exupéry's exile in New York amid World War II, the typescript provides a rare glimpse into the author's creative process. It will be showcased at Abu Dhabi Art from November 20-24, along with two original pencil sketches and a signed cheque by Saint-Exupéry. Book dealer Sammy Jay describes the typescript as a remarkable literary treasure that captures the essence of the beloved novella. 'Le Petit Prince' is recognized as one of the most translated books worldwide, published first in the U.S. in 1943 and in France in 1946.