Thomas Taylor (b. 1973)
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
titled, signed and dated 'Replica of the front cover art for Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone/ Thomas Taylor 2001' (bottom edge)
pencil and watercolour on watercolour paper
18³⁄₄ x 13¹⁄₂in. (47.8 x 34.2cm.)
painted in 2001

An original painting by Thomas Taylor replicating his upper cover design for Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone: ‘I consider this the only replica I shall ever paint’ (Taylor).

Published in 1997, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone is the most famous and influential work of fantasy and children’s literature published in recent times. Its enchanting narrative and richly detailed world have captivated readers of all ages and its front cover designed by Thomas Taylor has become one of the most iconic in 20th-century publishing. Depicting the young Harry Potter beside the Hogwarts Express on Platform 9 ¾, Taylor’s original artwork was commissioned by Bloomsbury when the artist was only 23 years old and working in a bookshop in Cambridge just a year after leaving art school. Taylor’s design is a charming visualization of the novel’s magical and whimsical world, perfectly capturing the sense of wonder and adventure that defines the young Harry’s entry into the magical realm. His cover art has become synonymous with the novel itself, adorning multiple editions and translations, and remains the most recognizable depiction of Rowling’s creation.

The original artwork, produced in 1997, was first sold at auction in 2001 for £85,750 to a buyer in the USA. The underbidder on that occasion was so disappointed to miss out that he contacted the artist to ask if he would consider a commission to replicate the work. Completed in 2001, it was sent to the current owner alongside a handwritten note from the artist stating that he considered it ‘the only replica I shall ever paint’, a promise he has kept ever since despite being asked repeatedly to create others. In June 2024, the original artwork re-appeared at auction in New York, realising a price of $1,920,000.