Origin uncertain. Reference to the variety in French pomological literature dates back to 1550 or possibly to 1540. Listed in the catalog of Prince Nurseries, Long Island, New York as early as 1771. A small-fruited pear resembling Winter Nelis in form, color and pleasing flavor but decidedly inferior to Winter Nelis in dessert quality. Late keeper but withers badly in storage. Tree fairly vigorous, true dwarf on quince, inclined toward biennial bearing. Moderately susceptible to blight. -- H Hartman, 1957.Messire. Origin France. A very old variety, perhaps of little value. Synonyms: Brown Orange, Chaulis, Communaute, Convent, Coulis, Emmilacour, Gray Monsieur John, John, Marion, Messire Jean, Messire Jean Blanc, Messire Jean Golden, Messire Jean Dore, Messire Jean Gris, Mr. John, Monsieur Jean, Monsieur Brown Gold, Monsieur Jean Dore, Monsieur John, White and Grey Messire Jean, White and Gray Monsieur John, White Monsieur John. -- W.H. Ragan, Nomenclature of the Pear, 1908.
Messire Jean, or Mr. John. This pear is held in high estimation in France, but in this part of America it is very apt to rot; it is of moderate size, but sometimes on young trees and rich ground, it grows large; the blossom end is full and round, diminishing suddenly towards the stem, which is of moderate length; the skin is rough, and when fully ripe, yellow with a portion of russet. It is sometimes called the Monsieur Jean doree; the flesh is coarse, juicy,and sprightly; but not very rich or highly flavoured - it ripens in October. -- W. Coxe, A view of the cultivation of fruit trees, 1817.