About
A rare film clip captures the influential French writer Marcel Proust attending Armand de Gramont’s wedding in 1904. Remarkably, Proust’s wedding gift was a revolver in a leather case inscribed with verses from the bride’s childhood poems.
Armand de Gramont was a French nobleman, scientist, and industrialist. Known by the courtesy title Duke of Guiche until he succeeded his father as Duke of Gramont in 1925, he was noted for his scientific contributions in aerodynamics and optics, founding a laboratory for aerodynamic experiments in 1908 and later a manufacturing company specializing in optical devices. During World War I, he served as an aviator and motorist interpreter, contributing to aeronautical and optical advancements crucial for military operations.
Post-war, he managed the company Optique & Précision de Levallois (OPL), which produced military and civilian optical equipment, including famous Foca cameras. His influence extended beyond science and industry into noble society, with his family connected to notable figures of the time. He passed away on August 2, 1962, at Château de Vallière in Mortefontaine, France.
