With sealed envelope on court finances in 1831
Letter in a secretarial hand (J. A. F. John) signed ("JWvGoethe").
4to (255 x 210 mm). 1 p. on a bifolium. With original addressed envelope bearing red wax seal.
€ 14,000.00
To the Russian councillor Ritter von Otto, secretary to Grand Duchess Maria Paulowna, requesting that a long standing matter be recalled discreetly to Her Imperial Highness's attention at a suitable moment; the practical aim is the collection of a small casket and the restitution of 75 thalers so as to settle the “somewhat antiquated” affair.
A clear example of Goethe’s late official correspondence within the Weimar court, reflecting his trusted access to the grand ducal household and his precise administrative tone at the age of eighty two. The presence of the addressed envelope with intact red wax seal sharpens provenance and documentary value. Written scarcely seven months before Goethe’s death, the piece situates the poet amid the financial and ceremonial routines of the Saxe Weimar court in the final phase of his public life.
Meyer & Ernst, sale 64 (Berlin, 1938), lot 124.
Small marginal tears to folds.
WA 49025a (based on the Meyer & Ernst catalogue entry).
