PORTIER (Paul). - Lot 256

Lot 256
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PORTIER (Paul). - Lot 256
PORTIER (Paul). Bar-sur-Seine, 1866–1962. French marine biologist. Deputy Director of the École pratique des hautes études (1906). Autograph letter signed “P. Portier,” addressed to “My dear Maurice.” No place, no date. 2 pages, in-8 format. Printed letterhead: “University of Paris, Faculty of Sciences, Laboratory of Comparative Physiology, Sorbonne, 1 rue Victor-Cousin (5th arrondissement).” A curious and lively letter blending personal confidences and scientific concerns, in which Portier reproaches his correspondent for concealing his successes “from his friends,” while expressing a desire to attend “that fine master’s degree ceremony in Dijon,” likely a musical or academic event. Not without irony, he invokes the Latin phrase “margaritas ante porcos,” lamenting that certain merits go unappreciated, before turning to his own activities: he sets out to “refresh [his] practical training in electricity,” candidly acknowledging his shortcomings in this field. Finally, he announces the upcoming installation of his equipment and the planned meeting with a certain “Frank.” This engaging document reveals the personality of a scientist in the midst of adapting to the technical advances of his time, as well as the friendly and intellectual ties within the Parisian scientific community of the early 20th century.
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