Strauss, Johann I.

"Polka...London, den 4^{ten July 1849 Johann Strauss", the music apparently complete, written in dark brown ink on five two-stave systems, 1 page, oblong 4to (19.3 x24cms),  written on an album leaf (10-stave paper printed in green with embossed decorative borders), London, 4 July 1849}

From the collection of Serena Moscheles, second eldest daughter of Ignaz & Charlotte Moscheles, by descent to the present owners.  This manuscript has never been offered for sale.

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: autograph manuscripts by Johann Strauss the Elder (1804-1849) are rare at auction.  This manuscript was written for the Moscheles family at the end of Strauss's second and last trip to England.  He arrived here on 21 April 1849, and returned to Vienna, after two-and-a-half months on 10 July, dying there on 25 September. Whilst in England, he performed this Alice-Polka at a State Ball at Buckingham Palace on 30 April, and at homes of the nobility, who responded by staging a "Farewell Matinée Musicale" for him at the Knightsbridge Barracks on 6 July.