The exact composition date cannot be determined due to insufficient surviving documentation, but it is at least prior to its publication in 1783. It was published by Beardmore & Birchall in London as a collection of pieces in the order of Hob. XVI: 43, 33, and 34. However, it is unlikely that these works were originally composed as a cohesive set, suggesting that this publication was made without the composer's knowledge.

First Movement

Moderato, A-flat major, 2/2 time. Sonata form.

It begins with a clear and resolute dotted rhythm. This motif from the first theme functions effectively throughout the movement, for instance, by being used repeatedly and insistently in the second theme. In the development section, the material from the transition passage is used to repeatedly modulate, continuously building tension. Then, in the final three measures, it slowly concludes with an Adagio indication and the effective use of a fermata, finally leading into the recapitulation.

Second Movement

Minuet, A-flat major, 3/4 time.

Da capo form consisting of two minuets (Minuet and Trio). The Minuet section consistently presents a skipping rhythm, including dotted notes, creating a scherzando impression. In contrast, the Trio section exhibits gentle motion centered around a smooth melodic line.

Third Movement

Rondo. Presto, A-flat minor, 2/4 time.

Rondo form: ABACADA Coda. A consists of aba, and the b section in the dominant key is slightly varied each time it is presented. The three episodes interspersed between the A sections in A-flat major are in E-flat major, F minor, and A-flat major, respectively. While the movement is lively throughout, placing the minor key at its center also creates a dramatic atmosphere. The Coda is based on material from D.