Thomas Steavens (c.1718–1759). Countess Hardenberg Vienna, E...

Thomas Steavens (c.1718–1759). Countess Hardenberg Vienna, Eisenstadt and the Esterházy Court. Four lively letters, describing music, theatre and aristocratic society in Vienna and Eisenstadt, 1750–1751. Four autograph letters signed by Countess Hardenberg to an unidentified gentleman, probably Thomas Steavens, Vienna and Eisenstadt, 1750–1751; in French, brown ink on laid paper, each comprising four written pages on a bifolium, sixteen pages in total; signed "Hardenberg" or "votre servante, Hardenberg", three with contemporary dockets. Original folds, occasional staining, fold wear and minor marginal damage; generally good. 26 June [probably 1750], Vienna; docketed 6 July. Offering assistance and enclosing letters of introduction for the recipient's intended journey. Hardenberg jokes that she is known everywhere "comme la mauvaise monnaie"—"like bad money"—and offers further recommendations should his itinerary change. She discusses Viennese musical and theatrical life, an impending visit to Eisenstadt and the castrato Caffarelli, who "réussit parfaitement en tout" but had recently been hissed after refusing to sing certain verses; also news of a singer expected during the Venetian Carnival. 29 June 1750, Eisenstadt; docketed 2 July. Discussing the recipient's travels, religious differences, mutual acquaintances and two Englishmen placed under her protection. Writing from the Esterházy court, she describes "concerts and music day and night" and remarks that "all the beauties of the theatre" were lodged there. 26 August 1750, Vienna. Discussing English travellers recommended by the recipient, including one described as a nephew of Richard Boyle, 3rd Earl of Burlington; contrasting their manners and reception in Vienna; her return from Eisenstadt; family news; the quiet theatrical season; the court's impending departure for a military encampment in Bohemia; and the movements of the Esterházy family. 1 May [1751], Vienna; docketed 12 July 1751. Discussing the recipient's travels through England, Italy and Germany; sending messages to Lady Burlington and members of the Finch and Cadogan families; mentioning Putney, the Duchess of Queensberry and Prince Esterházy; and urging him eventually to return to Italy. In a postscript, she requests a large black-wood fan painted with a procession of mules on Mount Vesuvius, including Prince Esterházy among the figures. A lively correspondence recording the introductions, friendships and commissions accompanying the Grand Tour, with accounts of musical and theatrical life at Vienna and the Esterházy court. (4) The cataloguer has been unable to establish Countess Hardenberg's given name or family connections and would welcome any information that might help identify her.

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