Ineffectual king of France from 1715 to 1774 who was dominated by his strong-willed and unscrupulous mistress, Madame de Pompadour. Advised of the growing discontent among his people, Louis prophetically observed “Après moi le déluge”—After me the flood—an apt prediction of the impending French Revolution. DS, in French, signed “Louis,” eleven pages on six sheets, 9 x 13.25, January 29, 1721. Rare marriage contract signed by the king and some 25 nobles and officials. Marriage contract for Jean Hollande, member of the King’s Guard, and Antoinette Blanchard. Among the signataries are the Duke of Villeroi, governor of Louis XV and the King’s life-long friend; the Duchess of Ventadour, the King’s governess until 1717; the Duke of Noailles, Marshal of France, Pierre-Yves de Bougainville, notary and member of the King’s Council, father of the explorer Louis-Antoine de Bougainville, has signed twice at the end. A couple small pencil notations, and some scattered light soiling and ink marks, otherwise fine condition. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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