German writer, scientist, and philosopher (1749–1832) who takes a place among the central intellectual and artistic figures of his day. His poetry and dramatic works provided source material for Beethoven, Schubert, and Berlioz, among others. Handwritten quatrain by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, unsigned, one page, 6.75 x 4.5, [January 30, 1814]. A quatrain verse celebrating the birthday of the Grand Duchess Louise, wife of his patron Carl August of Saxe-Weimar, beginning, "Voruber fuhrt ein herrliches Geschick." In full (translated): "A splendid fate leads past the noble heroes, the highly esteemed women; Now today's day brings us luck as if you stay with us." The reverse bears a note of authentication by Edmund Krauter, son of Goethe's secretary. In fine condition. Published in the Gedenkausgabe, I, 676. A splendid handwritten original piece by the revered German author.