PORTIER (Paul) - Lot 241

Lot 241
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PORTIER (Paul) - Lot 241
PORTIER (Paul) Born in Bar-sur-Seine, 1866-1962. French zoologist and marine biologist. Autograph letter signed "P. Portier", addressed to "Mon cher Franck". Paris, September 20, 1954. 2 pages in-8, on printed letterhead of the Institut Océanographique (Fondation Albert I de Monaco). Pleasant and witty scientific letter evoking, in a tone both serious and mischievously ironic, the effects of high heat on insects. Portier thanks his correspondent for thinking of him during a study trip to Greece, then elaborates on his personal observation: "Yes, I have observed the phenomenon you mention. On a scorching hot day in Vence, I saw butterflies avoiding the sun and staying in shady places. The heat optimum was reached or exceeded for them. We have to conclude that there are no butterflies in hell. That's absolutely true. So entomologists shouldn't go there...". He adds, humorously, in postscript: "Besides, there must be very few people in hell...". A letter that reveals the spirit of a great scholar, combining rigorous naturalistic observation and witty commentary, in the tradition of lively, personal scholarly correspondence. Very fine document on Institut Océanographique letterhead. Usual folds, light foxing, good condition.
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