Elgar, Sir Edward

comprising the first two bars of the theme of the slow movement, marked "Andante",

1 page, oblong 8vo, framed and glazed with a photograph of the composer, overall size: c.26 x 38cm, dated [London], "Jany 20 1910"

J.N Moore, Edward Elgar. A Creative Life, 1984, pp.552n & 566.  R. Anderson, Elgar in Manuscript (1990), p.195.

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 a striking quotation from the Violin Concerto, written out in the course of composition. On the date inscribed here, 20 January 1910, Elgar tried the music of the Andante out for the first time with a violinist, the beautiful American Leonora von Stosch, wife of Sir Edgar Speyer.  A copy of the entire violin part of the movement that he wrote for her is in the Elgar Birthplace Trust (ms.41).  The short-score manuscript of the present Andante was inscribed "Jan & Feb 1910 Careggi-Q. Anne Mansions, S.W".