ALS in French, signed “Lafayette,” one page, 6.75 x 8.75, May 14, 1832. Letter of recommendation for a Polish math professor named L. Korylsky, addressed to the scholar Arago. In part: “It is an honor…to introduce you to the good Mr. L. Korylsky, a professor of mathematics at the University of Varsovie, distinguished scholar, renowned for his knowledge of astronomy, whose patriotism has compelled him to join the ranks of the army, but whose civil and moral well-being now points him in the direction of the Bourges station, where all the non-military citizens unite. My dear friend, such is the present situation of this Polish professor, whose first and foremost desire is to be presented to Mr. Arago…In addition to his political activities, with which I have also been involved, I have had the extra advantage of being his personal friend. We shall have much to say about the various ways we can facilitate Mr. Korylsky during his stay in our metropolitan Paris while he pursues his study of sciences, and let us not forget that we must extend the same hospitality to all Polish students so they may continue their work and studies as they deem necessary.” Double float matted and framed to an overall size of 12.25 x 15.25. In fine condition, with intersecting folds, and a mild shade of uniform toning.
Following the 1830-1831 Cadet Revolution—an uprising by members of the Polish military and ordinary citizens against their Russian occupiers that was crushed by Czar Nicholas I—Korylsky sought refuge in France. The Poles were motivated, in part, by the French Revolution of 1830, which saw the overthrow of King Charles X. Not surprisingly, then, Lafayette—a veteran of two revolutions himself—would gladly endorse any activity pursued by the Polish professor while in France. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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