Josephine Deym, Brief an Ludwig van Beethoven, Wien, vielleicht Herbst 1809, Autograph, Konzept

Josephine Deym asks after Beethoven's health. She hopes she may still call him "friend". The letter was written at the end of a complicated relationship. In autumn 1804 they began to write each other letters full of intimate affection. Whereas Beethoven fell violently in love with Josephine, for her the relationship was less "sensual" (with which she reproaches him) but rather based more on friendship and understanding. As will happen, this caused problems, including jealous scenes and reproaches on both sides. At the end of 1807 they had reached the end of the relationship. Josephine's timid question as to whether she may still call Beethoven "friend" is evidence of the approaching break.