Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The building at No. 9 of the Turenne wharf in Nantes was built in the 18th century as part of the development of Feydeau Island, a major urban project of the time. In 1733 lots Nos. 3 and 4 (corresponding to the current 9 and 9bis) were awarded to the brothers Bossinot du Motay and Jean-Christosome Sauvaget, a local political figure who had served as the first consul, echevin and sub-marry of Nantes. These plots, acquired for approximately 14,000 pounds each, mark the beginning of the construction of two buildings forming an inner courtyard.

In 1756 the timber merchant Joseph Raimbaud, a supplier of the Royal Navy, purchased the two lots and built the current buildings there. These are distinguished by a spacious inner courtyard, later called "Oval Court", and symmetrical facades decorated with bosses and mascarons. Architecture, inspired by narrow medieval plots, incorporates monumental stairs as a central element, an innovation for the era. The facades, identical to the doors, have wrought iron balconies and decorative staples.

The building was listed as historic monuments on 5 December 1984, thereby recognizing its heritage value. Protected elements include facades, roofs, ironworks, carpentry, as well as the stairwell and ramp. The Oval Court, accessible by a common gate at No. 9, illustrates the adaptation of medieval architectural principles to a larger space, under the influence of architect Pierre Rousseau, known for his work on the Temple of Taste. This site testifies to the urbanization of Nantes in the Enlightenment century and its role in maritime commerce.

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