Set of 15 Bills of Lading (1838-1893) - 19th-century Trade and Transport Set of 14 original documents, covering the period 1838-1893, relating to the maritime transport of goods between France, Europe and the colonies. These maritime bills of lading illustrate international trade in the 19th century, highlighting the main trade routes and products transported. Among the notable documents are proofs of carriage of a variety of goods, illustrating the breadth and diversity of maritime trade in the XIXᵉ century. Cargoes include wine, spirits such as vermouth, olive oil, grain, beans, soap and even industrial machinery, testifying to the dynamism of trade between Europe's great commercial centers. The destinations covered by these documents reflect the importance of maritime routes at the time. The ports of Bordeaux, Antwerp, Liverpool, Rotterdam, Hull, Dunkirk, Cadiz and St. Petersburg appear frequently, as do more regional destinations such as Macinaggio in Corsica or Agde, underlining the integration of French ports into international trade. Several companies and shipowners are mentioned in these documents, including Compagnie Générale Maritime de Bruxelles and Compagnie Générale des Bateaux à Vapeur à Hélice du Nord, as well as various transport agencies based in Marseille, Bordeaux and Nantes. These companies, at the heart of maritime transport, played a key role in the movement of goods across Europe and beyond. Many documents bear tax stamps and official stamps, attesting to the regularity of transactions and payment of taxes. These elements reinforce the authenticity of the archives and offer valuable insight into the mechanisms for regulating maritime trade at a time when control of trade was a strategic issue for trading nations. This lot is a precious testimony to maritime trade in the 19th century, illustrating the economic relations between France and its trading partners in Europe and overseas. Good condition, slight folds and handling marks. Formats in-16.