Haitian-born American ornithologist and artist (1785–1851) whose monumental pictorial studies of the birds and quadrupeds of North America take a place among the most distinguished accomplishments in the history of zoology and natural history illustration. ALS, one page both sides, 8 x 10, December 29, 1837. Audubon writes from London to ornithologist Thomas Brewer. In part: “I am indeed sorry at the great loss you have met, but it is our duty to come to each and all the ordinances of our Almighty Creator, who doubtless although at times with very great apparent severity, deals upon us poor mortals blows not easily forgotten. I am quite surprised that you still come to complain of the silence of your good friend the Reverend Johnson, as I feel he has no ill thoughts towards you…. He informs me of having sent you one egg of the American flamingo. I am truly much obliged to you for all your kind cares and even especially for the drawing of the different species of eggs which I have received … although I look upon your notes with quite as much interest, they are not so immeadiately wanted for publication as the first. I am extrememly engaged morning, noon, and night and must continue to be so until my work is quite finished for I have heard of something like twenty species of new birds … all of which should reach us in safety and I will of course publish in my future volumes. Do not send me any drawings of eggs by letters … forward your letters by Captains of London packets. The packages are very heavy these hard times, and I am not a Prince! I hope that my letters all reach you and that you will find me at least half a dozen of the kins of Claugala Vulgaris or any resembling that bird, killed as late in the present winter to approach of spring as possible. Give me their several measurements according to my own method of measuring birds when in the flesh which you will find given in my third volume of letter press. Find me at least six male birds as different in sizes and markings as possible, and two or three females and one or two young of last year. I believe you never have any swans at Boston, if however you chance to see one or can procure any that are tame or domesticated, and American, try to purchase them for me…. Much trouble now exists about these birds and I fear that Dr. Richardson, Tarnell, and others have confused the species in such a way that I will have great trouble in correcting errors and proving pacts.” Audubon was then working on the completion of his Birds of North America, published in several installmemts between 1827 and 1838. Brewer is best known as the joint author of A History of North American Birds (1874), the first attempt since Audubon’s (thirty years prior) to complete the study of American ornithology. In fine condition, with intersecting folds, one through middle initial, small area of toning from partial wax seal on second page, and slight expected show-through from text on reverse. The writing is dark and clear throughout, and the signature is large and distinct. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
We use cookies on this site to improve your experience. By using this site, you accept our use of cookies. To learn more, please see our Privacy Policy.
