CHOPIN FREDERIC: (1810-1849) Signed twice by Chopin whilst in London, accompanied by Pleyel

CHOPIN FREDERIC: (1810-1849) Signed twice by Chopin whilst in London, accompanied by Pleyel

CHOPIN FREDERIC: (1810-1849) Polish composer and virtuoso pianist of the Romantic period. A rare D.S., F Chopin (twice), one page, folio, London, 20th July 1837. The partially printed document, completed in manuscript, is a Memorandum of Agreement between Chopin and Messrs. Christian Rudolph Wessel & Co. of Soho Square, London, importers and publishers of foreign music, in which the composer agrees to the sale, at a price of sixteen pounds Sterling, of ´all my Copyright and Interest, present and future, vested and contingent or otherwise, for the Kingdom of Great Britain of and in the following (M.S.) compositions; viz Op. 25 Twelve Etudes or Studies, dedicated to [the name left blank, although it would be Marie Catherine Sophie, Comtesse d´Agoult] in two books to be published conjointly in France & Germany and to appear on the 14th October 1837 composed by me´. Signed by Chopin at the conclusion and countersigned by Camille Pleyel (1788-1855) French virtuoso pianist and publisher, owner of Pleyel et Cie, as well as the Salle Pleyel concert hall where Chopin played the first and last of his concerts in Paris. The lower third of the document takes the form of a receipt (with blind embossed seal) in which Chopin acknowledges the payment of sixteen pounds from Messrs. Christian Rudolph Wessel & Co., signing his name a second time at the conclusion. Some light dampstaining and minor age wear, most noticeable to the central right border and not affecting the text or signatures. One tear to the right edge and a few small, minor areas of paper loss to the lower right corner. G

Marie Catherine Sophie d´Agoult (1805-1876) Comtesse d´Agoult. French Romantic author and historian, also known by her pen name of Daniel Stern. The countess conducted a four year affair with composer and virtuoso pianist Franz Liszt between 1835 and 1839. As the mistress of Liszt, d´Agoult became well-acquainted with the composer´s close circle of friends, including Chopin (despite the hatred which existed between d´Agoult and George Sand, Chopin´s partner). Chopin dedicated his Etudes Op.25 to d´Agoult, the reasons for which are a matter of speculation.