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Schubert, the kaleidoscope and a draisine

This is an aquarell by Schubert's friend Leopold Kupelwieser, for the journal of the 'Nonsense society' (Unsinnsgesellschaft) in Vienna, 16 July 1818.

Schubert is seen peering into a kaleidoscope, and Kupelwieser has drawn himself riding the draisine, a forerunner of the bicycle. The kaleidoscope and the draisine were both very new at the time. Schubert is shown holding a long stick. The stick appears to have been an 'in-joke' in the Unsinnsgesellschaft, a reference to Schubert being an assistant teacher at his father's school. 

Welcome to the Schubert Institute UK (SIUK)

 

Are you working on Franz Schubert (1797–1828), performing his music, or keen to learn about his life and times? If so, we invite you to become a member of the SIUK. We are a diverse community seeking to broaden the understanding of Schubert and his world across scholarship, performance, and public engagement. We host a range of in-person and online events tailored to the interests of our international membership – from study days to conversations and recitals. We encourage you to browse our pages and to join us in recognising the lasting impact of Schubert's music through the ages. 

- Dr Joe Davies

Chair, SIUK

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