Antique Framed 1730 French Legal Manuscript: A "Plaids" Court Pleading

This authentic 18th-century manuscript is a window into the French justice system under King Louis XV. Dated June 13, 1730, the document is a formal legal pleading (Plaids) originating from the Marquisate of Bâgé in the historic Bresse region. The text serves as a written defense for one Alexandre Deplanche, who was responding to a summons brought against him by a laborer named Anthoine Vernay. Of particular note is the crisp, diamond-shaped royal tax stamp at the top left, marked "G. De Dijon," indicating the document was registered in the Généralité of Dijon tax district. The handwriting is a fluid, expressive notary script, typical of the period, penned on textured laid paper that has survived nearly three centuries.

The manuscript is presented in a sleek, modern floating frame with a brass-toned metal stand. The double-glass construction allows for a complete view of the artifact, including the docketing notes and filing dates written on the reverse side. The frame is designed to be easily opened, giving the buyer the option to remove the document to feel the texture of the antique handmade paper or to examine the 300-year-old ink up close. This is a unique decor piece that combines stark modern framing with the rich, tangible history of pre-revolutionary France.

Measurements (approximate - rounded to the nearest quarter inch):
14.5 inches in height
11 inches in width
3 inches in depth

All sales are final so please don't hesitate to reach out to us with any questions prior to purchase. Other objects found in the listing photos are for decorative use only and not included in this purchase.

VINTAGE & ANTIQUE
Vintage and antique items are pre-owned and aged goods. In most cases, we do not clean or polish any items that come into our shop. Once you remove an item's traces of age and patina it's not something you can reverse, so we leave those activities up to the buyer. We do not disassemble found art from their frames unless it is necessary to differentiate a print from an original piece of art. Vintage prints purchased from this shop could originate from any print media (e.g., magazines, books, photographs, art prints, etc.). We try our best to describe items accurately and disclose any and all flaws and imperfections. Please refer to pictures as a visual description. We want to make sure you are happy with your purchase so, please do not hesitate to ask any questions you may have prior to checkout.

SHIPPING
As much as possible, we utilize recycled shipping boxes. The box you receive your item in may show signs of wear and pre-use.

PHOTOGRAPHY
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