65A

'[I]t is inexplicable why this man [Einstein]. . . enjoys such immense popularity'

Elsa Einstein.

Autograph Letter Signed,

to American writer George Sylvester Viereck, in German, additionally signed by Viereck at upper right of first page: "Answered: George Sylvester Viereck." The letter, sending an etching of her husband [not present], and suggesting some books about her husband's work. 4 pages, 4to, written on a folded sheet, personal stationery; horizontal fold.

[Berlin], 7 July [1908-29].

  • Notes: "Enclosed is the etching, signed by my husband. This is a particularly fine, successful picture of him. I hadn't seen it before, and I have no idea who did it. . . .

    "My husband is in Gatow. At the moment, his problems are pinching and gripping him so violently that it won't be possible for you to speak to him again. I'm busy with the small move into the temporary country house. These aren't earth-shattering things I'm doing! But nevertheless, they take up a lot of my time. Would you like a book that will enlighten you about my husband's work? The popular writings only provide a very vague insight; they don't go into depth. The specialized scientific works require such an enormous amount of study; one must have taken so many steps before reaching this stage. I know that my husband highly recommended the book by [Hans] Thirring. It tackles the problem from a philosophical perspective! [Alexander] Moszkowski's book 'Einstein' is an entertaining read; it contains conversations that are reproduced almost word for word [ Einstein: Insights into his Thought World (1921)]. Hundreds of books exist on the theory. In America, a very amusing one came out: 'Einstein for the man in the street.' Psychologically, it is inexplicable why this man, who ponders and writes about things so remote from most people's grasp, enjoys such immense popularity. He himself is of unparalleled modesty; his ideal was to be able to relax and work in silence. . . ."
  • Condition:
    Please contact the Specialist for the auction to request a condition report.

    Condition reports and additional images are provided as a courtesy and should be used by you to aid in the formation of your own opinion regarding condition. All material is sold subject to Swann's standard Terms and Conditions of Sale as published in our catalogues and posted on our website, and include the following terms: (1) all property is sold "as-is"; and (2) works cannot be returned on the basis of condition.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

Money Order / Cashiers Check, Personal Check, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Upon request, Swann will facilitate the shipping of purchases to out-of-town buyers at an additional charge for packing, shipping and insurance, but will not be responsible for any loss, damage or delay resulting from the packing, handling and shipping thereof. Unless specific instructions are received, Swann is the sole judge of the method to be used for shipment. Packing and shipping costs will be noted on the invoice mailed to successful bidders after the sale, and are based on the actual costs involved. Be advised that a full commercial invoice must accompany any purchase shipped outside the US.

November 6, 2025 12:00 PM EST
New York, NY, US

Swann Auction Galleries

You agree to pay a buyer’s premium, as outlined below, and any applicable taxes and shipping.
Buyer's Premium
$0 - $100,000:
27.00%
$100,001 - $1,000,000:
22.00%
$1,000,001+:
12.00%

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $149 $10
$150 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $5,999 $200
$6,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 $499,999 $20,000
$500,000 + $50,000