Johann Rudolf Zumsteeg: His Short Biography and Aesthetic Representation of His Works

“You are surrounded by the long-crowned throng,
“You, too, have earned the wreath,
“And found my trail;
“Take it from the hand of all-encompassing Nature!

“I, the creatress of every life,
“I, I am the mother of every art.
“Though veiled by the haze of the senses,
“The son of earth may struggle to reach me.
“Rare spirits have recognized me,
“Have called me, the sheltering Muse.
“They mastered the hearts of their brothers,
“Tore them through joy and pain,
“And now strive in their choir,
“Boldly upward toward perfection!”

In the sanctuary of the musical arts
hangs now Zumsteeg’s portrait in eternal glory.
Germany, honor your son,
Pay him gratefully his just reward!
And you, mother of noble spirits,
Württemberg, recognize yourself!