An early piano variation set composed during his Bonn period. It was composed approximately eight years after his first piano variations, WoO 63. The theme is taken from an arietta by the Italian composer Vincenzo Righini (1756-1812), who was active in Vienna and Berlin.

Beethoven is known for his active approach to the variation genre. This work, written in 1790/91, appears to be based on the conventional variation techniques of the time, using a popular melody as its theme and elaborating the melody and its accompaniment while preserving its harmony.

However, this work, comprising 24 variations, shows consideration throughout to prevent it from feeling overly long. Examples include the canonic opening of Variation 7, the meter changes in Variations 14, 19, and 23, the "scherzando" indication in Variation 20, and the tempo changes in Variations 23 and 24. Furthermore, the final variation, which concludes the work, follows attacca from the preceding variation without a break, intending a climax suitable for a finale. It is also significantly longer than the other variations, presenting a finish more akin to a fantasy than a mere variation. This three-part final variation also incorporates planned changes in tempo and tonal color, such as slowing down midway and partially introducing B-flat major, a third below.