Get the latest tech news

Researchers find high levels of lead, mercury and arsenic in Beethoven's hair

Researchers found high levels of lead, mercury and arsenic in the German composer's hair, which may help explain some of his many ailments

Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons German composer Ludwig van Beethoven began losing his hearing in his 20s, a fact that deeply upset and embarrassed him. An analysis of Beethoven’s hair has revealed high levels of lead, arsenic and mercury, researchers report this week in a letter to the editor of the journal Clinical Chemistry. While it remains to be seen what other secrets Beethoven’s hair will reveal, the public’s fascination with this troubled, talented artist will undoubtedly live on, says study co-author Nader Rifai, a pathologist at Harvard Medical School, to the London Times ’ Tom Whipple.

Get the Android app