October 2019 Auction Ends Thursday, October 31st, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/31/2019
Albert Einstein autograph letter signed to his sister Maja Winteler-Einstein in 1921, as Einstein was beginning his speaking tour throughout the world. Ominously, in foreshadowing of what was about to strike Germany, Einstein writes that he is supposed to go to Munich, but is declining because he would be putting his life at risk if he were to visit the city; at that time Munich was in a wave of severe anti-Semitism, with an order having been issued the year before to expel Jews from the city, and Hitler having just become chairman of the NSDAP in Munich.
Dated 6 September 1921, Einstein's letter first discusses investments in Switzerland, which Maja and her husband Paul Winteler shared with him, and then his children, in addition to his travels. German letter translates in full, ''Dear Maja! I sent Pauli's letter to K with a brief accompanying note. Since then I was invited to his house one time, together with Dernburg, but I did not hear anything further about the matter and did not get the letters back either. From this, I gather that everything is settled now in a satisfactory way. Pauli, however, will have to attend the meetings from now on, so that his colleagues will not complain about him. I did not find out where the balance is going to be sent. I am very sorry that you have had such a difficult time in Florence. In truth, you should not have gone to Italy without a solid plan. But we only learn through experience.
On the 16th, I will meet Albert [Hans Albert, Einstein's son] in Innsbruck and then will slowly, bit by bit, travel to Bologna with him. I will have to be there on the 21st. I will have to present lectures there on the 22nd, the 23rd, and the 26th. I will try to speak Italian, but with the aid of an interpreter versed in the material, if necessary. Albert will have to return home at that time. School starts on the 26th! I will have a bit of free time, though, and I will definitely visit you. I will have to be in Holland by early November. Before then, I am supposed to go to Munich, but I will not do that, because this would endanger my life right now. You would not be able to help me in Bologna, because this would require familiarity with the material. I am so happy that we will see each other again in Florence, where I will be completely free. If only I could bring Albert. The two boys wanted to visit you in Luzern some time ago, but you had left already. They are developing splendidly, they are intelligent, naturally unpretentious, and interested in many things. Albert plays the piano very well, and he shines when playing with me. If at all possible, I will show Albert to you.
I am glad that a renter was found for your apartment. I worry about the amount of damage your things may have suffered! I am extremely busy, partly because so many people are trying to approach me. I have a small cottage on the Havel, where I will be able to find refuge. / Sending kisses to you, / your Albert / Greetings to Paul''. Single page letter measures 8.75'' x 11''. Light foxing, and separation starting along folds. Overall in very good condition.
Albert Einstein Autograph Letter Signed From 1921, Regarding Anti-Semitism in Germany -- ''...I am supposed to go to Munich, but I will not do that, because this would endanger my life right now...''
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