PORTIER (Paul) - Lot 229

Lot 229
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PORTIER (Paul) - Lot 229
PORTIER (Paul) Bar-sur-Seine, 1866 - Paris, 1962. French marine biologist and zoologist, collaborator with Charles Richet in the discovery of anaphylaxis. Autograph letter signed "P. Portier", addressed to "Cher Monsieur" [Maurice Emmanuel]. No place or date. 3 ½ pages in-8. Brief, familiar letter in which Portier regretfully declines an invitation, citing a worrying state of health: "For the past month, my stomach has been in the most deplorable state...". This candid confidence gives the letter an intimate and sincere character, revealing the scholar's frailties in the last years of his life. Despite this impediment, Portier was keen to maintain the link by inviting his correspondent back, testifying to a cordial and ongoing relationship. He also mentions a forthcoming engagement, announcing a conference at the Sorbonne around February 26, for which he promises to send out invitations. A modest document in terms of its scope, but interesting for the biographical information it provides, notably on the scholar's state of health and his still sustained activity, as well as for the link he maintains with the composer Maurice Emmanuel.
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