A Magnificent 17th-Century Legal Manuscript – 330+ Years of History.
An exceptional and museum-quality Property Indenture dated 1693, during the joint reign of King William III and Queen Mary II. This large-format document is hand-inscribed in iron gall ink on genuine animal vellum (parchment) and concerns a significant land conveyance in the village of Baston, Lincolnshire.
 
The document centres on James Hammond, a prominent local figure of the era. The text is a masterclass in 17th-century "Court Hand" calligraphy, featuring the classic scalloped "indented" top edge designed to prevent forgery.
 
Document Highlights:
Date: 1693 (Late 17th Century).
 
Location: Baston, Lincolnshire, England.
 
Subject: James Hammond (Landowner/Yeoman).
 
Material: Heavy-gauge vellum with original fold lines and natural patina.
 
Features: Includes original signatures and the four original wax pendant seals which are also inscribed on the reverse.
 
Condition:
Remarkably well-preserved for a document of this age. The vellum is sturdy, and the script remains clear and dark. A stunning piece of primary-source history that would look magnificent framed in a study or library.
 
A centrepiece for any collector of British history, genealogy, or rare manuscripts.
 
Document measures 52 x 35.5cm or 48.5cm including the pendant seal strips (20" x 14" x 19").