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an old open book with writing on it sitting on a tablean old piece of paper on a white surfacean open book with writing on it sitting on top of a table
Premium Maître Paul PASTAUD

999 - [Provence]. Account Book for the Noble Olivier de Mottet, da…
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Estimate €3,000 - €4,000
Sale commission
Description
[Provence]. Account Book for the Noble Olivier de Mottet, dated 1 September 1659. 1659–1670. Manuscript in-4 (20 x 27 cm) in brown ink, comprising 582 paginated pages (593), with 40 lines per page, soft vellum with flaps, plain, unmarked spine, handwritten ‘O.D. Mottet’ bookplate on the head edge, traces of lacing (contemporary binding). Household account book covering the period 1659–1670. This work, originating from one of Provence’s most eminent families, offers a unique insight into the life and day-to-day management of a noble household in the 17th century, spanning a decade of activities and management, notably the grape harvests from two large vineyards and the cultivation of olive trees spread across the family estates at Tarascon and Marguerittes. It also mentions frequent journeys to Aix, Arles, Avignon, Nîmes and Beaucaire. In addition to its heritage value, this manuscript constitutes a veritable Provençal archive, offering an insight into the agricultural, economic and social practices of a noble family in the 17th century. Every day is recorded in precise detail. A unique document. This exceptional archive bears witness to the rigorous management of a vast estate, whilst illustrating the domestic life and social relations of a Provençal noble family. It constitutes a valuable milestone for the study of the economic and cultural practices of the Grand Siècle. A clearly legible manuscript, copied in a single hand with very few erasures. The edges and spine of the binding are partially missing; there are two small wormholes on the first fifteen leaves, and marginal worm damage on the final leaves.
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About the sale MONTIGNAC – 31st BOOK SALE – Day 2 of 4 – Nos. 550 to 1084
Auction location
Auction time 08/20/2026 at 11:00 AM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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