In good company

No other portrait of Ludwig van Beethoven has achieved fame similar to the painting by Joseph Stieler (1781-1858), which shows the composer with the manuscript of Missa Solemnis. It is today one of the most well-known items in the collection of the Beethoven House (Beethoven-Haus Bonn) and is thus particularly suited as the theme of a special exhibition at the beginning of the 2020 Anniversary Year. The presentation will shed light on the genesis of this Beethoven portrait and place it within the context of portrayals of the eminent figures of 19th century German politics, society and culture. At the same time, it will also focus on the multi-faceted history of the painting’s influence.