The Maisons-Laffitte Bestiary

Abstract

The Literary Institute in Paris was not only a place of literary traditions, but also a home to numerous animals, mainly English cocker spaniels. Dogs, cats, birds – all played a significant role in the lives of the residents of Maisons Laffitte. The animals were treated as family members, and their presence and role were immortalised in photos and personalized decorations within the institute. Strong attachment to animals, anthropomorphism, concern for their wellbeing and emotions, all of these were reflected in daily life and correspondence among the residents. The sense of attachment to animals was incredibly strong, evident in the care of their health and emotional reactions to their deaths. Numerous animal photographs served as a ‘declaration’ of the bond between owners and their pets. Additionally, the decorations in the Institute testified to a deep connection with animals, materialising the memory of them. The article aims to analyse the relationships between ‘Kultura’ members and their collaborators with animals that lived on the institution's premises. Research questions emphasise the role of animals in the residents' lives, especially Jerzy Giedroyc, whether animals were considered an integral part of ‘Kultura’ by collaborators, and characteristics distinguished individual animals.