Lot 610: Johann Balthasar Neumann: Renowned Bohemian-born

Johann Balthasar Neumann: Renowned Bohemian-born architect (1687-1753) best known for the Würzberg Residence and the Basilica of the Vierzehnheiligen. ALS in German, signed "J. Balt. Neumann," one page both sides, 7 x 9, January 2, 1739. Letter to his collaborator, architect and engineer Lieutenant Joseph Raphael Tatz. In part (translated): "For your good wishes for the New Year which you so kindly sent me I express my fondest thanks...and desire to live to see many happy returns of the day; I have now completed my work here and will probably depart for Wuertzburg these coming weeks." Intersecting folds, a couple pencil notations to first page, and writing from opposing sides lightly showing through, otherwise fine condition.Tatz had been part of team that worked on the 1722 construction of the Würzburg Residence, still considered one of the most beautiful and finely proportioned palaces in Europe. He worked with Neumann in later years, often representing him in Europe if the architect was traveling abroad. Ironically, less than three years after this cordial exchange, Tatz was arrested for publishing a pamphlet attacking Neumann.