1788 French Notarial Manuscript Amsterdam Paper Watermark – Pre-Revolution Document
1788 French Notarial Manuscript Amsterdam Paper Watermark – Pre-Revolution Document
1788 French Notarial Manuscript Amsterdam Paper Watermark – Pre-Revolution Document
Original 18th-century handwritten French legal manuscript dated October 23, 1788, written shortly before the French Revolution (1789).
The document was drafted before a notary and records a legal declaration or inventory relating to a testament and estate matters. The text references the opening and verification of documents deposited with a notary and mentions individuals involved in the legal process.
The paper bears a decorative “AMSTERDAM” paper mill watermark, indicating high-quality Dutch paper widely used throughout Europe for official documents in the 18th century.
Several handwritten signatures appear on the reverse, confirming authentication of the document.
Details
- Date: 23 October 1788
- Country: France
- Language: French (18th-century cursive script)
- Type: Notarial legal manuscript / estate record
- Paper: Dutch paper with Amsterdam watermark
- Original ink handwriting
- Signatures on reverse
- Two pages
Historical Significance
Documents from the 1780s in France are historically important, as they were written during the final years of the Ancien Régime, immediately before the French Revolution of 1789. Legal manuscripts like this illustrate the functioning of the French notarial and legal system just prior to the revolutionary period.
Condition
Good antique condition for its age:
- natural paper toning
- folds from storage
- scattered foxing spots
- minor edge wear
- handwriting remains clear and legible