GASTELLIER (René). - Lot 65

GASTELLIER (René). Born in Ferrières (Loiret), 1741-1821. French physician, epidemiologist, politician and agronomist, mayor of Montargis, deputy for Loiret during the French Revolution. L.A.S. addressed to "the president and members of the Royal and Central Agricultural Society". Montargis, February 3, 1819. 1 page in-4, with handwritten biographical note attached. Beautiful and interesting letter of application in which Gastellier, then aged 78, requests admission to the Société royale et centrale d'agriculture, recalling his entire medical, political and agronomic career. In particular, he mentions his work on "epidemic and epizootic diseases", a mission for which he was employed by the government for over thirty years: "From 1774 to 1776, I corresponded with the Intendant of Orleans (...) who sent my reports to the Minister of the Interior...". He also recalls his appointment as Agricultural and Statistical Associate of the Royal Society, his extensive scientific correspondence, and the many helps he claims to have given "to farmers and their fellow workers". The piece is accompanied by a remarkable handwritten autobiographical note tracing his career: epidemic doctor, mayor of Montargis, deputy to the Legislative Assembly in 1791, moderate supporter of the Revolution, persecuted under the Terror and then imprisoned in Sens. An interesting set for the history of rural medicine, agronomy and health administration under the Revolution and Empire. Very fine, regular and legible handwriting. Good condition.