LONDON.- Christie’s presents Science Fiction and Fantasy, an online-only sale during Classic Week which will offer masterpieces by the greatest authors and artists in the science fiction and fantasy fields. Open for bidding from 28 November to 12 December, Science Fiction and Fantasy will explore the extraordinary history of the genres through the books, objects and artworks that continue to inspire new generations of readers and viewers. The sale is led by The Dune Bible, an extraordinary artefact from Alejandro Jodorowsky’s epic Dune project (estimate: £250,000-350,000) in addition to an exquisite first edition of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a contemporary binding, with provenance linked to Jane Austen and Mary Wollstonecraft (estimate: £250,000-350,000).
Among the highlights is a stunning example of a true first edition of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, one of just 500 copies printed (estimate: £80,000-120,000) in addition to the first edition of The Hobbit, a major landmark of fantasy literature (estimate: £8,000-12,000).
Additional notable items include the very first drawings in the development of the cover art for Jurassic Park (estimate: £20,000-30,000), and a first edition of Hypnerotomachia Poliphili (1499), recognized as the most important work of Renaissance fantasy and a landmark of imagination and creativity (estimate: £120,000-160,000). The sale also features original artworks for modern science fiction classics, including the artwork for the graphic novel adaptation of William Gibson’s Neuromancer (1989) (estimate: £40,000-60,000), the original dust-jacket artwork for the first edition of Neal Stephenson’s The Diamond Age (estimate: £20,000-30,000) and for the first edition of Neal Stephenson’s Snow Crash (estimate: £200,000-300,000).
The auction will also feature a curated selection of iconic vintage movie posters, including a rare original US poster for the Cinerama release of Stanley Kubrick’s 1968 science fiction masterpiece 2001: A Space Odyssey (estimate: £6,000-9,000). Also on offer is the original 1933 film poster for King Kong, a true classic of cinema (estimate: £25,000-35,000), alongside a unique uncut printer’s proof of the poster from the first release of George Lucas’ groundbreaking 1977 space opera Star Wars (estimate: £5,000-8,000).
The auction will also offer an extraordinary selection of natural history items, including rare and fascinating specimens that bridge the worlds of paleontology and geology. Among the highlights is a Tyrannosaurus Rex tooth, from the most famous and iconic of all dinosaur species, with an estimate of £6,000-8,000. Also included is a remarkable gogotte formation, a striking natural sculpture formed approximately 30 million years ago. These mineral formations, created by the binding of calcium carbonate with fine quartz grains, are renowned for their exceptional beauty and rarity (estimate: £50,000-80,000).
Mark Wiltshire, Specialist, Books and Manuscripts at Christie’s: "This thrilling sale spans the full spectrum of science fiction and fantasy, from its earliest origins to the beloved franchises of today. With items dating back to 1499, this auction offers a unique opportunity to explore the genre’s evolution—from the first imagined visions of fantastical worlds to the modern-day icons of Harry Potter, Star Wars, and Jurassic Park. We’re excited to showcase books, artifacts, artworks and collectibles that capture the enduring magic of science fiction and fantasy across centuries, offering something for both long-time collectors and passionate fans alike.”
The lots will be on view as part of the pre-sale exhibition at Christie’s King Street in London from 7 to 12 December.
