Lot #660

[Richard Wagner] Musical Manuscript from the Overture to Tannhauser

Description

Contemporary scribal copy of an excerpt from the "Overture" to Richard Wagner's opera Tannhäuser, scored for "Bassposaune und Ophycleide [Bass Trombone and Ophicleide]," one page both sides, 9.75 x 13, no date. In very good to fine condition, with some light creasing.

First performed in 1845, Tannhäuser is a romantic opera by Richard Wagner that explores the conflict between sensual desire and spiritual redemption. Set in medieval Germany, it follows the poet-knight Tannhäuser as he flees the hedonistic world of Venusberg in search of forgiveness and moral renewal among the pilgrims and artists of the Wartburg. Wagner contrasts lush, seductive music with austere sacred themes, using the tension between these sound worlds to dramatize the struggle between earthly passion and divine grace.

Auction Info

• Auction Title: Fine Autographs and Artifacts Featuring Science and Technology
• Dates: #737 - Ended 03/18/2026