Jacques Guérin: Chemist-Patron and Co-Creator of Proustian Myth

According to Seneca, the ability excel beyond one’s destiny in any circumstance makes one noble. One of those who succeeded without fail was Jacques Guérin, a chemist made major contribution creation and subsequent codification myth carefully moulded around most important figures modern culture, Marcel Proust. Although relics Proust’s life oeuvre, that trained industrialist Guérin preserved, are held considerable esteem, Guérin’s own person has been much slower find its way public attention recognition. chemical identity, however, remained almost entirely neglected. This is despite fact using profits from applied chemistry (the production perfumes) able render vital service French world as patron, selfless supporter poor artists and, above all, co-creator Proust myth. article dedicated filling this gap our collective memory. Moreover, key memorabilia Proust's – rescued restored at his expense by an otter fur-lined, dark grey wool overcoat, also represents inspiring example material culture pioneering age polymer chemistry. admired exceedingly venerated coat is, fact, decorated with Bakelite buttons, i.e., first ever synthetic material, which mankind owes Belgian Leo Baekeland, early twentieth century. Full text English translation available on-line version.