PORTIER (Paul). - Lot 250

PORTIER (Paul). Bar-sur-Seine, 1866 – Paris, 1962. French biologist and marine zoologist; collaborator with Charles Richet in the discovery of anaphylaxis. Autograph letter signed “P. Portier,” addressed to “Dear Sir” [Maurice Emmanuel]. No place or date. 3½ pages, in-8. A brief and informal letter in which Portier regretfully declines an invitation, citing a concerning state of health: “For the past month, my stomach has been in the most deplorable condition….” This candid confession lends the letter an intimate and sincere tone, revealing the scholar’s frailty in the final years of his life. Despite this setback, Portier is keen to maintain the connection by extending a reciprocal invitation to his correspondent, reflecting their cordial and ongoing relationship. He also mentions an upcoming engagement, announcing a lecture at the Sorbonne around February 26, for which he promises to send invitations. Although modest in length, this document is interesting for the biographical details it provides—particularly regarding the scholar’s state of health and his still-active professional life—as well as for the connection he maintains with the composer Maurice Emmanuel.