Fine autograph letter signed by Linné 1759
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FINE AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED BY LINNAEUS IN 1759.
LINNÉ, CARL VON (1707-1778). Autograph letter signed (ALS), a letter of recommendation to his pupil Claes Alströmer, son of Jonas Alströmer, written in latin by Linnaeus as Professor of Medicine and Botany at the University of Uppsala.
1 page in folio on 4 pages (the others blank), dated Uppsala 12 december 1759, written in latin, signed with full name and his red seal.
With an intact armorial seal in red wax set near the signature, with the Linnaean motto: "Famam extollere factis": (fame is built with help of laudatory facts). With professional slight repairs to folds, old folds, a few very small holes to some folds, offsetting of seal on upper part, minor damages to seal. In very good condition. Together with two small engraved portraits of Linnaeus, about 150x85/150x130 mm., both in a passepartout.
The text with English translation:
"To the Reader
The man who presents this letter is Mr. Claudius Alströmer, a Swedish nobleman who in 1750 was accepted and matriculated at the Uppsala Academy. From this time he has indefatigably accomplished his studies in Economy and Natural History, during several years always under my personal supervision. In parts of the Natural History he has improved more than any other of my students. He may therefore be considered as my beloved and most capable son. I now ask everybody Who loves virtue and wisdom, botany and other natural sciences to support him. I will regard such favor and support as if bestowed upon me personally. Uppsala 12th December 1759."
Carl von Linné (Carolus Linnaeus), Professor of Medicine and Botany at the Academy of Uppsala (1707-1778).
Claes Alströmer (1736-94) was the son of Linnaeus' friend Jonas Alströmer, a pioneer Swedish industrialist. When this letter was written, Claes Alströmer was about to begin an extensive tour of Europe (1760-1764), visiting Germany, France, Spain, Portugal and Italy. He was to find this recommendation "of immense use" (B.D. Jackson: Linnaeus, 1923, p 238). From these countries he sent back plants, seeds and shells to Linnaeus. While in Cadix in Spain he discovered seeds of the South American lily-shaped flower, in Spanish "Peregrinas de Lima" (now known as "Peruvian lily" or "Inca lily"), sent them to Linnaeus who, having sowed them, named the flower "Planta Alstroemeria" in honour of his pupil.
Provenance: Lars Bergquist (born 1930), Swedish author and diplomat.
Photo.
Auktionsnummer:
6001
Datum:
2015-06-16