- 128
Spontini, Gaspare, (1774-1851)
Estimate
1,000 - 1,500 GBP
bidding is closed
Description
- Spontini, Gaspare
- Seven autograph letters signed ("Spontini"), in French, including six to the publisher A.M. Schlesinger in Berlin
- ink on paper
one criticizing him in strong terms, noting that he has never found his candour agreeable, observing that he has never asked for anything concerning the theatre or Madame Devrient, nor Mr Weber of Prague, but only for himself, pointing out sarcastically that he has never taken a penny ("pas un liard") of his "immense wealth", claiming that Schlesinger refused his request most disagreeably and humiliated him; in the other letters to Schlesinger Spontini also discusses the proofs of Olimpie, the publication rights to Alcidor, his conducting of Righini's Te Deum, Nurmahal and other matters ("...Vous m'avez depuis longtemps par trop habitué à votre franchise qui n'a jamais été agréable pour moi..."); in a seventh letter, addressed to "Monsieur Leo", he discusses financial matters
7 pages, various sizes, two with autograph address-panels, the majority docketed by the recipient, one with the composer's embossed monogram, [Berlin and elsewhere,] 1825-1846
7 pages, various sizes, two with autograph address-panels, the majority docketed by the recipient, one with the composer's embossed monogram, [Berlin and elsewhere,] 1825-1846
Condition
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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
A good collection of letters, including one refreshingly frank statement of discontent, contained in a letter which, as a note on the address-panel tellingly indicates, received no reply from Schlesinger.