Joseph Freiherr von Hammer-Purgstall (1774-1856) - Stich von Johann Nepomuk Passini nach einem Gemälde von Philipp von Stubenrauch

Joseph Hammer (Baron von Hammer-Purgstall since 1835) was one of the most famous orientalists of the early 19th century. He came from a wealthy family and could afford many extensive journeys. He temporarily lived in Constantinople before he returned to Vienna in 1807. He then worked as an interpreter for the court and was named court counsellor in 1817.

Between 1807 and 1810 Hammer and Beethoven were in contact. Obviously, Hammer sent the composer a poem for which Beethoven thanked him in a letter. In the same letter, Beethoven mentioned an "opera poem" Hammer had written for him. In fact, the orientalist sent Beethoven two texts for musical comedies which Beethoven never set to music. There are no reports about a more intensive relationship. However, it is quite probable that Beethoven had an interest in Hammer's many publications about oriental literature.(S.B.)