In Tunis, a congregation of consuls were united and rivals in their quest for antiquities, more out of a desire for discovery and occupation than for commercial gain. The notion that "one rose through enterprise and discovery" was a pervasive one, and the appeal of the ancient archaeological riches located on the southern rim of the Mediterranean made the consuls stationed in this area the privileged correspondents of amateurs and academics. This article provides an analysis of the role of the consul-archaeologist, whose professionalisation was, in both cases, still in its infancy. The author also highlights the importance of correspondence, particularly private correspondence, which reflects the diversity of profiles of foreign affairs agents. These agents were not "just" consuls or diplomats, but also collectors and representatives of the Republic of Letters.
Antiquarisme, esprit des Lumières et diplomatie dans le Tunis ottoman
Adnen el Ghali
2025-01-01
Abstract
In Tunis, a congregation of consuls were united and rivals in their quest for antiquities, more out of a desire for discovery and occupation than for commercial gain. The notion that "one rose through enterprise and discovery" was a pervasive one, and the appeal of the ancient archaeological riches located on the southern rim of the Mediterranean made the consuls stationed in this area the privileged correspondents of amateurs and academics. This article provides an analysis of the role of the consul-archaeologist, whose professionalisation was, in both cases, still in its infancy. The author also highlights the importance of correspondence, particularly private correspondence, which reflects the diversity of profiles of foreign affairs agents. These agents were not "just" consuls or diplomats, but also collectors and representatives of the Republic of Letters.
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