Between the XVIᵉ and XIXᵉ century, notarial deeds are essential for understanding the everyday life, l’economy and family structures under the Ancien Régime.
The origin of notarial deeds :
Notarial deeds have their origins in antiquity, when societies felt the need to put important agreements in writing in order to preserve proof of them.
In ancient times : In ancient Rome, scribes and notaries drew up contracts, sales and wills. These writings had legal value and were used as evidence in the event of a dispute.
In the Middle Ages :From the Middle Ages onwards, the role of notary developed in Europe. Notaries drew up deeds for private individuals, lords and religious institutions. Their written documents guarantee the legal certainty of the agreements.
Modern period :From the XVIᵉ to the XVIIIᵉ century, the notary became a public officer recognised by the State. Notarial deeds were preserved, filed and transmitted, ensuring their official value.
Contemporary period : From the XIXᵉ century onwards, the notarial profession became organised at a national level. Notarial deeds became a mainstay of civil law, still used today.
For over two thousand years, notarial deeds have provided proof, memory and security for commitments between people.
| Type of act | Description in the XVIIᵉ century | Historical interest |
|---|---|---|
| Marriage contract | Fixes property, dowries and clauses between families | Family reconstruction |
| Will | Last will and testament, heirs, legacies | Study of estates |
| Donation | Early transfer of assets | Asset monitoring |
| Inventory after death | Detailed description of movable and immovable assets | Standard of living |
| Sale of goods | Transfer of land, houses, rights | Land history |
| Farm lease | Farmland rental | Rural economy |
| Annuity lease | Transfer in return for an annual annuity | Income and dependence |
| Share | Distribution of assets among heirs | Family ties |
| Receipt | Proof of payment | Tracking transactions |
| Obligation | Financial commitments, debt | Economic relations |
| Power of attorney | Power of attorney given to a third party | Mobility and networks |
| Recognition | Declaration of rights or debts | Legal framework |
| Transaction | Amicable settlement of a dispute | Conflict resolution |
| Setting up an annuity | Creation of a life or perpetual annuity | Finance and credit |
