Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827)
A lock of hair, taken on the composer’s deathbed in 1827, with an autograph letter of presentation by Marie Pachler
A lock of Beethoven's hair taken on his deathbed; a gift from Marie Pachler, for whom Beethoven composed WoO 202, to another of the composer's acquaintances.

A lock of Beethoven’s grey and dark brown hair, c.7cm long, secured with thread to an autograph letter of presentation signed by Marie Pachler to Julius Schneller, Graz, 2 April [1]827 in German, one page, 186 x 129mm, integral address panel.

Provenance:
(1) Marie Pachler (1794-1855), Austrian pianist and friend of Schubert.

(2) Julius Schneller (1777-1833), historian and writer.

(3) Schøyen Collection.

A long-time admirer of Beethoven, Marie Pachler finally met the composer – and played the piano for him – in the summer of 1817, after which he wrote her a letter full of praise: ‘I have not yet found anyone who performs my compositions as well as you do’ [trans.]. Marie and her husband, Karl, invited Beethoven to Graz: the visit did not come to pass, but Pachler was to see Beethoven again in 1823, after which he composed a musical piece of farewell in two bars for her, WoO 202.

The letter that accompanies the present lock of hair is addressed by Marie Pachler to her tutor at Graz, Julius Schneller. Opening dramatically – ‘Beethoven is no more!' – Pachler goes on to offer this precious mortal remnant to Schneller on the basis that she knows no truer admirer of Beethoven, and one who knew the composer personally – just as his genius once joined them in delight, now this memento should bind them in mourning.