Lot 267
Einstein, Albert (1879-1955) German-born American physicist; famous for developing the theory of relativity; winner of the Nobel Prize for Physics (1921). Typed Letter Signed ("A. Einstein") on blind-stamped, personal letterhead, 1p, 11x8½", Princeton, New Jersey, 3 April 1951. Very fine. To Joseph Halle Schaffner, New York, nearly a year after the explosion over Schaffner's proposed contribution in Einstein's name to the New School of Social Research. Einstein had originally suggested that Schaffner give the money to the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, but he indicates in this letter that the money should be used for refugee intellectuals.
In part: "… It is well known that the refugee intellectuals of the Hitler persecution have nearly all found opportunity for work in this country. However, many of them were already middle-aged when they arrived and there are emergency cases produced by illness and old age which constitute a permanent worry for those of us who are in a more favorable position. It may be known to you that there exists a Committee in Aid of Displaced Foreign Scholars, headed by Mrs. Else Staudinger, which has successfully tried to mitigate this situation. I believe there could be no more satisfactory use for the money than to give it in the form of a private foundation to this organiation with the proviso that the funds should be used for such emergency cases of old age and illness. Such foundation could bear my name in conformity with your earlier intentions if you find it desirable….you would produce something good and worthwhile and earn the gratitude of all concerned.…".
Estimated Value $5,000 - 7,500.
|
| |
| Realized $4,400 |
