Lot no. 201
Large chest covered in leather and brass, decorated with stu…
Val.: €250 - €300
November 3rd, 2026 at 2:00 PM
75009 Paris - France
November 3rd, 2026 at 2:00 PM
75009 Paris - France
Terms of sale
Sale of the Jean Lartéguy Collection – Following the estate of Madame L
11.00 am
PART 1: Books
2.00 pm
PART 2: Works of art
Tuesday 3 November 2026 at 2.00 pm
9 Rue Drouot, 75009 Paris – in Room 4
Viewing:
Monday 2 November 2026 between 11.00 am and 6.00 pm
Carefully preserved by his wife since his death in 2011 at the Hôtel des Invalides, Jean Lartéguy’s collection comprises numerous books as well as the interior of his flat on the Champs de Mars, right at the foot of the Eiffel Tower.
A writer, journalist and international correspondent, Jean Lartéguy was one of the key witnesses to the conflicts and upheavals of the 20th century. A former member of the Resistance, an officer, then a journalist and war correspondent, he travelled the world, from Indochina to Algeria, from the Middle East to Asia. Author of the famous novel *Les Centurions*, he enjoyed immense literary success, drawing inspiration from his experiences and encounters. A passionate observer of people and civilisations.
The library offers, first and foremost, a historical journey through first editions of 19th- and 20th-century literature. Ranging from Chateaubriand to Cocteau, from Flaubert to Apollinaire, Céline, Colette, Breton, Saint-Exupéry and Proust…
The second part of the sale will unveil an eclectic collection of works of art, furniture and mementoes brought back or gathered during his travels. Asia features prominently, with works from China, Japan, Korea, Thailand and other regions of the Far East.
Among the notable pieces are a Japanese Edo-period folding screen with a gold background; Buddhist sculptures, Japanese prints, Chinese paintings, ritual objects and curiosities make up a collection that reflects his taste for distant civilisations. The furniture and decorative objects, for their part, reveal the unique atmosphere of his interior, where Oriental antiques stood side by side with 20th-century design. Designs by Gino Sarfatti, furniture from Maison Jansen and various pieces of silverware illustrate the eclecticism of a very ‘70s-style Parisian décor. On a more personal note, the decorations, photographs, medals and personal mementoes evoke the many facets of his life. A silver dish by Puiforcat, a gift from President Valéry Giscard d’Estaing, serves as a particular reminder of the many prominent figures he rubbed shoulders with and counted among his friends. His personal belongings, such as the world map and items linked to his career, further bring to life this portrait of a writer deeply engaged with his era. Beyond their artistic or historical value, these books and objects bear witness to a life devoted to understanding people.
The lots will be stored in the warehouse (storage charges apply) unless you request otherwise.
See original version (French)
Payment terms:
Consignments will be stored in the warehouse unless otherwise requested
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
Sale commission: 30 % incl. taxes for voluntary sales
Nature of the sale Voluntary sale
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
Contact:
L'Huillier & Associés - Ventes aux enchères
Operator:
L' Huillier & Associés
Address:
Sale commission: 30 % incl. taxes for voluntary sales
Payment terms:
Consignments will be stored in the warehouse unless otherwise requested
See original version (French)
Terms of sale: Download the auctioneer's conditions of sale
Legal notice for voluntary sales: L' Huillier & Associés Declaration date or accreditation number: 2002-390 Intra-Community VAT: FR57443759592
Exposures: