Paganini, Nicolò.

in which he reports that, although he has recovered from the time his doctors had said he was about to die at once, he is nevertheless tired of travelling and therefore intends to give up violin-playing permanently, and sell his instrument, hoping thereby to raise a good sum and prolong his days; he also discusses his forthcoming concerts in London, gives him his new address in Paris, and expresses his enthusiasm to see both him and also his son Achille, 1 page, 4to, Paris, 14 February 1833; the fine large portrait executed in coloured washes over traces of pencil, showing the gaunt violinist appearing as if for a curtain call, with a playbill entitled "Signor Paganini's last Concert" for Covent Garden, 3 August 1832, 3 items, framed and glazed, overall size c. 48 x 78 cms.; together with a fine small watercolour of Ole Bull, framed with a playbill for a concert in Leeds, 2 items, framed and glazed, overall size, c. 69 x 28 cms.

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."

. . . al giudizio dei miei medici e chirurghi, non mi davano che otto in dieci ore di vita, Grazia al Cielo l'ho superato. . . e stanco di viaggiare e di fatticarmi ai Concerti ho l'intenzione di abbandonare per sempre l'esercizio del violino, il quale sarrà un Millione per chi ne volesse fare l'acquisto. Spero che il riposo potrà allongare i miei giorni. . .

Paganini's comments highlight the physical costs incurred by travelling virtuosos in the early nineteenth century. However, in 1832 Paganini had also suffered from mercury poisoning (a common treatment for syphilis), salivation, loss of weight, deteriorating eyesight and other symptoms. (For details of these and other self-inflicted ailments, see J. O'Shea, Music and Medicine, 1990, pp. 66-85). He gave his final appearances in 1834.