Objekt 10
Flute in d1 ('Beethovenflute' )
Description
The flute Nr. 10 supposedly belonged to Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827).
In 1910, a certain Jacob Carl Venier (born in 1820) made a written statement that on his 'honor and handshake' this instrument had been given to his father Wilhelm Venier by 'van Beethoven' in 1818/1819. (Documents in the archives of the Historical Museum Basel).
This statement was made when the instrument was sold to councillor Dr. Vincenz Schindler who acquired the flute on behalf of the 'Archduke Eugen' (of Habsburg).The latter gave the instrument to the conductor Felix Weingartner (1863–1942) as a gift on his 70th birthday. Weingartner was also active in Basel.
Following Weingartner's death, his estate was donated to the library of the University of Basel; in 1957 the flute and several documents were given to the Historical Museum Basel.
Object description
Maker unknown
Vienna( ? ),1st half of 19th c.
boxwood; ivory (clamps); brass (key)
one flap; foot not belonging
L. 628 mm, 548 mm (swinging)
Donation Carmen Weingartner-Studer, Basel
Inv. 1957.339.