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Sigmund Anton Steiner, Brief an Ludwig van Beethoven, Wien, 29. Dezember 1820, Autograph

Beethoven-Haus Bonn, Sammlung H. C. Bodmer, HCB Br 284

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Beethoven's publisher Steiner sends three overtures (op. 115 and overtures for op. 113 and op. 117) to be proofread. In addition he politely but firmly asks for the credit he has given to be repaid, including the interest (which was quite considerable).

Between 1816 and 1818 Beethoven had borrowed money several times from Steiner, a total of 2,420 florins Viennese currency. Beethoven reacted angrily to the fact that Steiner now asked for his money back, including 500 florins Viennese currency interest on top of the sum. Over the following years the relationship between the composer and his publisher - which used to be very good and amiable - now deteriorated. Beethoven only finally paid back the loan in April 1824.

On pages 2 and 3 of the letter (the inner pages of the bifolium) Beethoven makes notes in pencil on the repayment as well as the origin of his debts and their make-up. For a detailed transcription see BGA 1422 note.

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