Scientists and researchers have immediately taken administrative action to ban the potential export of this instrument, owned by an individual, estimated to be worth between two and three million euros.
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Christie’s has decided to postpone the sale of the Pascaline which was to take place on Wednesday 19 November in Paris, following the suspension by the Paris administrative court of the export permit of this calculating machine created in 1642 by Blaise Pascal.
“Waiting for the final decision (administrative justice)given the temporary nature of this decision and in accordance with its clients’ instructions, Christie’s is postponing the sale of Pascaline, which was scheduled for November 19 at 16.00. (15:00 GMT), explained the auction house.
Scientists and researchers have immediately taken administrative action to ban the potential export of this instrument, owned by an individual, estimated to be worth between two and three million euros.
On Tuesday, the Paris administrative court “forbidden from leaving the territory” while waiting for a decision on the benefits. The applicant wants the instrument to be reclassified as a national treasure so that it is not spread abroad. The Ministry of Culture has determined that the export certificate was issued by its department in May in line with what is usually done.
Two experts – one from the National Center for Arts and Crafts and another from the Louvre Museum – have given their approval to the issuance of the certificate. Depending on applicable deadlines, a decision on the merits could take several months.
At trial, opponents highlighted Pascaline’s unique value. “This machine must respond to special commands made in Pascal”, explained Laurence Plazenet, president of the Society of Friends of Port-Royal, referring to Vauban, Artus de Roannez or the Perrault brothers, all close to King Louis XIV.
