石川千代松からエドワード・S・モースへ 1900年12月28日

 

石川千代松からエドワード・S・モースへ

New Year's well wishes from Chiyomatsu Ishikawa to Edward Sylvester Morse

Bearing the postmark of December 28, 1900, from Tokyo, the note is dated January 1, 1901, in adherence to the customary practice of New Year's greeting cards. Chiyomatsu Ishikawa, once a student of Edward Morse during Morse's tenure at Tokyo University, sent this heartfelt greeting in German. Notably, it reached Morse on January 21, 1900, as indicated by the Massachusetts postmark

Ishikawa Chiyomatsu (石川千代松, January 30, 1861 – January 17, 1935) was a Japanese biologist, zoologist, evolutionary theorist, and ichthyologist who left an indelible mark on the scientific landscape of Japan. His significant contributions extended beyond his homeland, particularly in the realms of evolutionary biology and ichthyology. Notably, Chiyomatsu played a pivotal role in the early dissemination of Charles Darwin's groundbreaking evolutionary ideas within Japan, contributing to the broader acceptance and understanding of evolutionary theory in the country.

In 1878, Chiyomatsu embarked on his academic journey at Tokyo Imperial University, where he studied under the guidance of Edward S. Morse. His intellectual foundation expanded further as Morse's departure from Japan led him to influential mentors such as Charles Otis Whitman and Kakichi Mitsukuri.

After completing his studies at Tokyo Imperial University, Chiyomatsu pursued advanced research in Germany under the tutelage of the distinguished evolutionary theorist August Weismann. The experience abroad not only enriched his scientific knowledge but also fostered a global perspective on evolutionary studies.

Upon his return to Japan, Chiyomatsu assumed the role of an assistant professor at the University of Tokyo. Subsequently, he became a professor at the University of Agriculture (農科大学, Nōka Daigaku) from 1890 to 1924, where he continued to inspire and shape the minds of future scientists. His tenure at these esteemed institutions marked a period of significant academic influence, where Chiyomatsu continued his research, contributing to the advancement of zoology and evolutionary thought in Japan.