Lot 1051

Previous image preload Next image preload

Description:

KARL MARX
(1818 - 1883) German philosopher and revolutionary socialist who developed the socio-political theory of Marxism. His ideas have since played a significant role in the development of social science and the socialist political movement. He most notable books included The Communist Manifesto (1848) and Capital (1867-1894), co-written with his friend, German revolutionary socialist Friedrich Engels. Rare, fine content A.L.S. "Karl Marx" in German, 1.1pp. 8vo., London, Jan. 21, 1877 to the prominent German gynecologist, Wilhelm Alexander Freund ("Lieber Freund Freund"). Marx predicts a revolution in Russia, dismisses Wagner's music, and requests a book for "my friend Engels". In part: "...I am sending New Years' greetings to you and your wife a little late, thanks to my work load and a sore throat, which I contracted during my last days in Karlsbad. What happened to me there is what happened to the bumpkin ['Bauer'] Martin Luther, who, mounting a horse from one side, would fall off on the other...". He sends his daughter's best wishes, and mentions she "...has translated Delius' 'The Epic Element in Shakespeare,' printed by the locale Shakespeare Society, of which she is a member. This translation brought great praise from Delius' friends. She would like the name of the Anti-Shakespeare Professor and his work...the matador of the local Shakespeare Society, Mr. [Frederick] Furnivall, doesn't want to forego the pleasure of that opus...". Marx then turns to European politics: " The 'oriental question' (which will end with a revolution in Russia, regardless of the war against Turkey) and the inspection of the Social-Democratic troops in the Fatherland will hopefully convince the German cultural philistines that there are more important things in the world than Richard Wagner's pie-in-the-sky music...". Marx concludes his letter asking that if Freund should see German chemist Moritz Traube, he should pass along Marx's greetings and kindly remind him: "...to send me the title of his various works which he promised me ...[which] are very important for my friend Engels, who is working on a book regarding natural philosophy in which he intends to utilize Traube's findings...". Near fine condition. Marx met Traube in Karlsbad as Engels was working with Traube on the relation between organic and inorganic nature, i.e., the dialectics of nature in Anti-Dühring, published the year after this letter was written. This work was Engels' major contribution in the development of Marxist theory. Marx had published Das Kapital in 1867, and at this time was at work on its continuation. The Russo-Turkish War would result in victory for the Russians and liberation from Ottoman rule for large parts of Eastern Europe - it would not be until 1905 that the first revolutionary actions would occur in Russia. Sold with: WOLFGANG HEINE (1861-1944) German lawyer and social democratic politician, longtime member of the Reichstag and Prime Minister of Anhalt and the Prussian Minister of the country. A.L.S. on his letterhead, 4pp. 8vo., Berlin, Oct. 19, 1916, untranslated but referencing this letter. Ex: Christie's, May, 1998.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

COD (cash on delivery), Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Paypal, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Shipment is sent USPS priority, USPS International Express (for most overseas) or UPS Ground at the auctioneer's option, signature required, unless other arrangements are made. Handling, shipping and insurance charges will be added to the invoice in one entry. Buyers should be aware that large, framed, fragile or odd shaped items can incur substantial shipping and packing charges. NOTE: large, heavy or bulky items are not shipped by the auctioneer. Client is responsible for arranging shipping for these pieces. Please see "Bidding Procedures" for contact information of recommended shippers. Customers who supply their own courier account number will still be charged a handling fee.

July 22, 2011 11:30 AM EDT
Stamford, CT, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 22.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 + $1,000