Entwurf für das Beethoven-Denkmal in Leipzig - Farbig gefaßtes Gipsmodell von Max Klinger, 1885/1886

Max Klinger created the first draft of his Beethoven scuplture as early as 1885 in Paris. According to his later memories, the scupltor had the idea when playing the piano. Especially the intensive colours that distinguish the first draft from the later completed memorial, represent the young sculptor's ideas.

The memorial was not completed until 1902. Now its colours are much more discreet and more precious material was used. The sculpture was not ordered, so the sculptor had to raise the exorbitant sum of 150.000 Goldmarks himself. This is another proof of the personal value Max Klinger associated with the Beethoven sculpture.(S.B.)