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Joseph Philippe ClairvilleSwiss naturalist
Country:
 Switzerland |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Life in Switzerland
- Botanical Endeavors
- Entomological Achievements
- During the French Occupation
- Legacy
Early Life and Education
Jean-Pierre de Clairville, a Swiss naturalist, was most likely educated in Montpellier, studying medicine and natural science. Little is known about his early life before settling in Switzerland.
Life in Switzerland
Clairville established himself in Nyon and later Bex, Switzerland. He dedicated himself to collecting and studying the flora and entomology of the Valais region.
Botanical Endeavors
In 1788, Clairville purchased a home in Winterthur and established a botanical garden. From 1791 to 1798, he published seven books on garden plants and shrubs. His magnum opus, "Manuel d'herborisation en Suisse et en Valais," was published in 1811.
Entomological Achievements
Alongside his botanical pursuits, Clairville produced a two-volume work on the entomology of Switzerland titled "Entomologie helvétique" (1798-1806). This comprehensive text cemented his legacy as a pioneer in Swiss entomology.
During the French Occupation
During the French occupation of Switzerland, Clairville resided in Meiningen. There, he collaborated with his wife to translate and expand Johann Matthäus Bechstein's work on household birds.
Legacy
Clairville's herbarium and library were bequeathed to Winterthur's city library and later transferred to the Botanical Institute of Zurich in 1901. His contributions to Swiss botany and entomology remain significant, with his works serving as valuable references for future generations.
