Einstein, Albert

Autograph letter signed ("A. Einstein"), 1 page (11 1/4 x 8 3/4 in.; 285 x 222 mm) on his personal letterhead with the Haberlandstrasse 5 address, Berlin, 20 July 1929, to Professor-Doctor Stefan Konsuloff, in Sofia, Bulgaria; formerly folded, two tiny fold-tears at top and bottom, tipped onto a board. Matted, glazed, and framed with a photograph, original stamped envelope mounted to the verso now torn.

Stargardt, 27 March 2001, lot 366 (unnamed consignor)

Einstein evaluates two younger physicists seeking a position. His correspondent was an influential biologist and doctor at the university in Sofia, a specialist in the thyroid, who helped to promote the Darwinian theory in Bulgaria. Einstein was asked to serve as an impartial judge of the work of Georgi Ivanoff Maneff and R. Zaykoff. Einstein writes: "It's hard for me to fashion a clear judgement of the human situation, really I don't know Mr. Maneff and I cannot rely upon his assertions regarding Mr. Kaykoff. But one thing is sure. The publications of Mr. Maneff are—as far as I have seen them—not without profound scientific value, they even show a mastery of the material treated. On the other hand, Mr. Zaykoff has a better education, even though—as it seems to me—not much critical sense. Perhaps he will develop, then he could still do good work." Einstein counsels trying him out and disregarding the opinions of Maneff. "I say this with regret, but bound by the feeling of duty, that the path will be cut off for a young man who may perhaps accomplish something." In the end, he leaves the decision to the faculty: "You, with your colleagues, will find the right way."