Published in 1788, along with Hob.XVI: 19 and the spurious Hob.XVI: 17. Although the year of composition predates this, theories suggest around 1766 or the early 1770s, based on stylistic and technical analysis.

The work consists of two movements.

First Movement: Allegro moderato, B-flat major, 2/4 time.

From the first theme to the transition, diverse elements intermingle, such as brilliant dotted ascending figures with trills, improvisatory flowing triplets, rests that create pauses, and uneasy syncopations. However, in the subsequent second theme, the combination of sixteenth and thirty-second notes imbues the movement with a finale-like momentum, creating an impression of a bright, sonorous piece.

Second Movement: Moderato, B-flat major, 3/4 time.

It possesses the tranquility of a slow movement. Overall, perfect cadences are avoided, creating a continuous, seemingly unending flow. Conversely, the lively codetta clearly delineates the sections of the exposition, development, and recapitulation.