PARIS, Oct 8, 2008 (AFP) - The handwritten lyrics to one of singer Jacques Brel's most melancholic songs, 'Amsterdam', fetched more than 108,000 euros (148,000 dollars) at a Paris auction on Wednesday.

The text scribbled on a school notebook was one of 95 lots up for grabs at a Sotheby's sale held 30 years after Brel's death and despite protests from his family.

The records, old photographs, guitars and other items that once belonged to the Belgian-born singer were from the private collection of an anomymous seller.

Reports said they were recovered from the Riviera home Brel shared with Sylvie Riget, one of his many mistresses, and were split between her nieces and nephews following her death.

Brel's widow and three daughters, who hold full rights to his work, opposed the sale and had offered to buy up the entire collection for 175,000 euros.

'This is a national heritage. It shouldn't be sold,' said Brel's widow Therese on France Info radio. 'It's a shame and a bit of a disgrace.'

More than 200 people attended the auction dedicated to the giant of French chanson, who died of lung cancer on October 9, 1978.

The 'Amsterdam' text was picked up for 108,750 euros -- twice its estimated value -- by a bidder over the phone.

'Mathilde', also written by hand, was sold for five times its original estimate at 72,550 euros, as were many other items that went far beyond starting bids.