Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus.

first edition of the string trio in e flat, k.563, the complete parts, 13 [violin], 13 [viola] and 10 [violoncello] pages, folio (c.31 x 23.7cm), engraved title and music, plate number 368, later marbled card wrappers, slipcase, trimmed by the binder, slightly affecting engraved surface of viola and violoncello parts on a few pages, pinholes, some worming, a few very small stains

Haberkamp, p.317; RISM M 6248 and MM 6248; Hirsch, iv 150

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."

rare.  Of the 20 copies listed in Haberkamp only two are recorded as being in private hands.

The String Trio in E flat, composed in the summer of 1788, is one of Mozart's greatest masterpieces, and unquestionably the finest example of its form. The principal source for the work is the Artaria edition, advertised in the Wiener Zeitung on 3 March 1792; the autograph, lamentably, is lost. The fact that the violoncello part is by a different engraver has led Weinmann to suggest that Artaria may have taken over a publication begun by Hoffmeister. Something similar seems to have occurred with some other editions of Mozart (either very late lifetime or very early posthumous ones) - e.g. Artaria's first editions of the Piano Concerto in B flat, K.595 and the "Prussian" Quartets, K.575, 589 and 590. Thus it is possible that Mozart himself may have been involved with the initial decision to publish.