FR EN
an old document with writing on it and a picture of a horse in the background
Ader

285 - Henri HERZ (1803–1888). Autograph letter, Warsaw, 25 May 185…
See original version (French)

Estimate €500 - €700
Sale commission
Description
Henri HERZ (1803–1888). Autograph letter, Warsaw, 25 May 1859, to the Escudier brothers in Paris; three and a half pages, in-4 format, with address and postmarks (date crossed out for publication). A long letter about his journey and musical life in Russia. The journey got off to a bad start, with the theft of his travelling bag, following a journey of ‘5 days and 5 nights in dreadful carts (telegs)’ through the snow and cold. On arriving in St Petersburg, he was able to attend ‘the last theatre performance of the season’, in aid of ‘poor Bosio. […] With Lent comes a deluge of concerts. Concerts interspersed with tableaux vivants are very much in vogue. However, there are also fine symphonic concerts, concerts where all the performers play sight-reading (no rehearsals); and vocal concerts featuring the singers of the Imperial Chapel. Charity concerts are also held with the assistance of distinguished amateurs, and there is a great deal of chamber music performed. However, the most popular concerts are generally those by foreign artists who enjoy a certain reputation’; takings are high but the costs are enormous ‘and absorb a large share of the profit. […] There are six full orchestras in St Petersburg, all paid for by the Crown’, almost all of whose members are German and well conducted by Schuberth. ‘The piano is much loved in Russia’; there are many teachers (Herz names the most important ones). ‘The audience at the Grand Theatre is particularly fond of Verdi’s music; but there is another section that swears by Wagner and Schumann. This section mercilessly condemns any recognisable melody: I heard them boo the overture to *La Dame Blanche*’. In Moscow, the theatre is magnificent; the audience there is ‘extremely gracious’ and Herz was very well received. ‘Piano teachers are doing a roaring trade in Moscow’, including Honnoré and one of Rubinstein’s brothers…
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
About the sale Letters and Autograph Manuscripts – Part II
Auction location
Auction time 10/14/2026 at 2:00 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
You may also like