(Posted to this site on )

Here the inscription reads: As pretty as the moon and we will all see each other again very soon, in freedom, in health, when all this is behind us. Love, your grandchild, until 120 (years). Olmutz, February 4, 1940

Born on October 26 1938, nine and a half months after his parents marriage, Peterle is the focus of many photos. On the backs of many, Artur has written poignant messages to his parents in Silesia , messages that become increasing urgent as the Nazi stranglehold tightens around the Jews of Europe.

In April 1939 Artur wrote:
My Peter is laughing at the world. He thinks it all belongs to him. He should be [laughing] and healthy until 120 [years].
6 months

"Until 120 years" expresses the traditional Jewish hope of attaining the full measure of a life, signified by the 120 years lived by Biblical Moses. Five months later, Hitler attacked Poland.

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Artur and Crete with their only child Peterle

. on Earth ...greets you and kisses you [third person singular, most likely refers to Peterle] ... Love your Artur, Crete and little Peter, that, when this all is behind us,* very soon, we will all see each other again, healthy and strong, (and) be together, until 120 years.

Peterle 16 months. Olmutz,
February 4 1940

*Translation note: Bracketed word(s) indicate illegible or incomplete inscriptions, in cases where an assumption can be made from context. Ellipses indicate totally illegible or cut-off words.

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