Large handwritten register of commercial correspondence kept at the very beginning of the 19th century, likely by a major trading house operating between several cities in southern France (Marseille, Béziers, Avignon, Lyon, Chalon, etc.). The title page, adorned with a calligraphed heart motif, indicates that the register was written in Year XII (1803 / 1804) under the Consulate / early Empire. The volume brings together careful copies of outgoing letters, a common practice among merchants to keep a record of exchanges, negotiations, order confirmations, payment terms, and transport arrangements. The handwriting is elegant and consistent, with the refined thick-and-thin line work characteristic of the early 19th century. A beautiful historical and graphic study object, ideal for researchers, collectors, and library or study-room display.
✦ Provenance : France ✦ Period : Year XII – First French Empire, 1803–1804 ✦ Dimensions : 44 × 30 cm ✦ Material : Original period boards, handwritten in brown ink ✦ Content : 218 manuscript pages ✦ State : Expected wear and surface marks to the cover, some foxing and ink spotting inside; structurally sound and complete.
Authentic documentary piece illustrating French commercial networks in the early 19th century, perfect to enrich an archive collection, economic history library, or curiosity cabinet presentation.
