Gerhard von Breuning (1813-1892) als Kind - Fotografie einer anonymen Miniatur aus dem 1. Viertel des 19. Jahrhunderts

Gerhard von Breuning was Stephan von Breuning's son from his second wife Constanze (born Ruschwitz). After the friendship between Ludwig van Beethoven and Stephan von Breuning revived again between 1825 and 1827, Gerhard often stayed at Beethoven's place. Beethoven lovingly called the boy "Ariel" and "Hosenknopf" (button). Gerhard also liked the composer a lot and visited him almost daily during Beethoven's last weeks.

Years later, Gerhard von Breuning wrote down his memoirs and published them in 1874 under the title "Aus dem Schwarzspanierhaus". Until today, these memoirs are one of the most relevant sources regarding Beethoven's living circumstances and his character during the last years of his life.(S.B.)