Vellum Indentures We have sold several thousand vellum indentures, each a wonderful and unique piece of history. The indentures we obtain are generally from the 16th thru 19th century. Each is handwritten on vellum, which ranges from nice manufactured parchment to animal skins. The indentures usually start out with a summary of the transaction, naming the date, the monarch, and the parties. Interestingly the parties are identified by their profession or status as well. The particulars of the property are then identified including type of property, location, and possession. Many indentures from the reign of Charles II onwards, contained a printed vignette in the upper left-hand corner. Prior to this period the vignettes were drawn by hand and ranged from simplistic to beautiful calligraphy. During the reign of William III, revenue stamps started to appear adhered to the left margin. During the subsequent reign of Queen Anne, tax stamps were added to the verso behind the revenue stamp. Inserts into the revenue stamps of tin and sterling foil began to appear in following years. Of primary importance to the indenture is the seal. The red wax seal is most common, with black and green waxes used on occasion as well. On older indentures we see red wax pendant seals hanging from the bottom of the indenture attached to vellum tags. Some of the pendant seals were wrapped in paper to afford better protection. Flat seals were usually on a tag made of vellum, cloth, or silk inset into the folded up bottom portion of the indenture called the Gutter. Flat seals feature a variety of impressions with some identifying the signor by arms or by a scene or object. The most coveted of all seals are the Great Seals of the monarchs. They can be several inches in diameter with brilliant impressions. They adorned official documents including ornate recovery documents of the Court, Probates of the Church, and Charters and Patents. Vellum indentures tend to be quite sturdy. Archival storage or framing insures their continued preservation. Vellum should never be heated or exposed to dampness. Age toning is common and can be quite handsome. This should not be confused with staining, soiling, or foxing. The indentures are shipped folded, along their natural folds. Creasing in the condition description excludes the natural folds. Our condition ratings are as follows: Very Fine- no defects; Fine -light discoloration; Very Good- some discoloration and/or mild creasing, a minor hole(s) or worming; and Good- an indenture with defects as described. The intrinsic value of the vellum indenture is in its displayability. Premiums are added for important content or parties, any historic significance, seals and seal impressions, decorative script or calligraphy, and condition. Collecting indentures has gained in popularity. Popular themes include reigns of monarchs, seals, heraldry, geneaology, and geography. Our current indenture offerings of indentures can be seen on our finehistory page.
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