Joachim, Joseph.

a scribal manuscript with extensive autograph corrections, revisions, deletions and additions, pages 14, 15, and 28-34 written out wholly by Joachim and inserted in the score, some of these leaves loose, others affixed to the score, some pages with revised versions on stuck-down strips of music paper, autograph title-page ("Hamlet-Ouverture. Den Mitgliedern der Weimarschen Kapelle gewidmet von Joseph Joachim. Op.4"), 102 pages, folio (32 x 26.3cm), 16-stave papers, paper label to upper cover with autograph inscription ("Hamlet. Ouverture von Joseph Joachim"), original nineteenth-century turquoise boards, no place or date [1853], some leaves loose, covers worn

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This is the most substantial music manuscript by Joachim to appear at auction for over 20 years. Deeply serious, like many of Joachim's compositions, it was written in 1853, the year the composer was introduced at Hanover by the violinist Reményi to the young Brahms.