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Sale 58
Manuscript, Collectibles and Aerospace Auction
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Photo |
Description |
Realized |
Lot 110 |
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Einstein, Albert. Typed Letter Signed "A. Einstein," one page, in German, 11 x 8½ in., Berlin, September 20, 1927. To [Leo] Kohn [Frankfurt], threatening to resign from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. In full, "I gave Mr. Warburg my opinion in all candor, but subsequently never heard from him. For this reason, I would consider writing to him once more uncalled for. If the agreement with Hadassah will be accepted, or if the Magnes proposals will be approved either in total or parts thereof, I shall not only resign from the Board, as well as from the Academic Council, but also publicize in the Jewish press in all frankness the reason for my resignation. If Magnes cannot be eliminated in the very near future, I shall also follow through with my resignation. I am doing this because I am convinced that at this point, no real harm would result by compromising the University in the eyes of the Jewish public. Perhaps it will serve the interest of the entire matter, if you could make sure everybody concerned is made aware of my decision. Friendly regards." Two file holes in blank right margin. Nicks at edges, light folds and creases not materially affecting its overall appearance. Near fine condition.
Felix M. Warburg (1871-1937) was an American philanthropist whose gift of $500,000 allowed the Institute of Jewish Studies in Jerusalem to open in December 1924, three months before the inauguration of the Hebrew University, of which it became part. He insisted that American Rabbi Judah L. Magnus (1877-1948) head the university and Chaim Weizmann, President of the World Zionist Organization, agreed. Einstein disagreed, citing Magnus' lack of academic experience and the way he ran the university. Einstein would fulfill his threat to resign in a letter to Chaim Weizmann on June 20, 1928, writing "As things stand I feel it impossible to be responsible any longer for matters concerning the university. Thus I ask you to strike me from the Board of Governors and the Academic Council and to inform the members of both accordingly." Backing down from his threat to "publicize in the Jewish press" the reasons for his resignation, Einstein added, "The public will certainly not be informed of this step by me.".
Estimated Value $4,000 - 6,000.
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| Realized
$3,525 |
Lot 111 |
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Einstein, Albert (1879-1955) Influencial physicist, author, and intellectual, known as the father of modern physics; winner of the 1921 Nobel prize for physics. Typed Letter Signed "A. Einstein," one page, 11 x 8¼ in., in German, Caputh near Potsdam, Sept. 10, 1931. To Mr. H. York-Steiner in Vienna, saying that he is enclosing the requested introduction by which he hopes that Mr. York-Steiner will fulfill his purpose. The introduction Einstein mentions is not present. Fine condition; one tiny rust spot at right edge.
From 1929-1932, Einstein spent much of the year at his summer house in Caputh, a quiet, idyllic place near two lakes, located six kilometers south of Potsdam. Einstein left Caputh in December 1932 for a lecture tour in the United States. On January 30, 1933, Hitler became Reich Chancellor and the downward spiral began. Einstein never set foot in Germany again.
Estimated Value $2,000 - 2,500.
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| Realized
$2,056 |
Lot 112 |
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Priestley, Joseph (1733-1804) English scientist, philosopher, theologian. He is best remembered for the discovery of oxygen (although there are other legitimate claimants), the invention of soda water, and for his writings on electricity. He attempted to meld scientific rationalism with Christian theology and helped found the Unitarianism movement. Brief Autograph Letter Signed "J Priestley," one page, 8¾ x 8 in., Northumberland (Pennsylvania), Oct. 20, 1796. Written to his sister, Mrs. Crouch, near Leeds, England, while still mourning the death of his beloved wife, Mary, that year and his son, Henry, the year before. In part, "I…with the other copy tho only a short letter. Your affectionate brother…." Boldly penned and signed. Very good; soiling and professional fold and seal repairs. Accompanied by a block of eight stamps feature Priestley's bust portrait.
Estimated Value $1,200 - 1,500.
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| Unsold |
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