Luigi is trapped in the ultimate capitalist nightmare, unable to afford both vodka and internet access. But he managed to smuggle out a couple of images from a meeting in St Petersburg.
N.I. Vavilov looks down on the assembled conference attendees. I’m not sure I’d be able to concentrate under those circumstances.
And the Great Man’s desk. Would it have been too much to have sat in his chair?
I did, of course. Elcio took the pic and I hope to post it here soon.
Based on a 1985 visit when they were preparing the office for the fist big birthday anniversary celebration, I can tell you that his desk was just as messy as yours or mine before they cleaned it up. It’s comforting somehow.
Ah, but do you have a photo of it in that state?
No. But I could get you a photo of mine.
So, why did they clean it up some day between 1985 and now? Perhaps Luigi could ask.
@Cary – Maybe one day people will be queuing to see it.
My desk is very neat.
@Jeremy – Guess I’d better clean it up then.
Incidentally, the map on the desk is of the area around Addis Ababa and shows Vavilov’s route.
I’ve recently had the privilege to sat in that room for a few days and to visit that office, both for the second time.
Visiting Vavilov’s office is always a honour and a thrill. You almost imagine Vavilov sitting on his desk, checking maps and planning his next surveying and collecting expedition.
Obviously I took a picture standing by the chair but didn’t dare to sit.
Surely, in those time, I’m sure the desk didn’t look as neat as it does now but that just reflects the enormous activity taking place in the whole institute (VIR) in general and in that office in particular.
Besides the office furniture it’s worth seeing the fire place (I’ve got a picture of that)!
It may sound childish but entering that office makes me feel somehow reverential …