Olivier de La Marche

Born around 1425, Olivier de La Marche was a Burgundian courtier, soldier, chronicler, and poet who served the dukes of Burgundy during the final years of the independent duchy. He was closely connected to the court of Charles the Bold and later served Mary of Burgundy and her husband, taking on important household and diplomatic duties.

Because he lived through major political upheaval in Burgundy and Flanders, his writing has lasting historical value. His memoirs and chronicles are known for their eyewitness perspective on court life, warfare, ceremony, and the power struggles of the late 15th century.

Alongside his historical writing, he was also known as a poet. He died in 1502, leaving works that are still used today to understand the culture and politics of the Burgundian world.