Old handwritten will 1925 France authentic vintage retro document

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This document, visible in the photograph, is a handwritten will dated 1925, written in French on a large-squared lined paper, typical of school or administrative stationery from the early 20th century. The writing, in black ink, is cursive and features calligraphy characteristic of the era, with neat capital letters and slightly inclined lines. The text covers almost the entire visible side, with margins drawn in blue and red pencil, a common practice for structuring personal or legal documents of that period.

The document is displayed unfolded on a dark wooden desk, in front of a row of old bound books, which highlights its historical character and authenticity. Several proper nouns and localities are legible, notably "Marseille", as well as the handwritten date "1925" at the bottom of the page. The mention "testament" (will) clearly appears at the top of the document, confirming its nature as a last will and testament. The author's signature, "Benjamin Aubert", is visible at the bottom, accompanied by a handwritten address, reinforcing the patrimonial value and archival interest of the piece.

The paper shows marked folds, indicating prolonged storage in a wallet or folder, but no major tears are visible on the exposed side. The ink, a slightly patinated black, remains legible despite some lighter areas due to age. No seals, stamps, or modern annotations are visible on the exposed surface. The overall impression is one of authenticity and faithful preservation from the original era.

This type of document is prized for its historical value, offering direct testimony to notarial and family practices in France in the 1920s. It is a concrete example of written heritage, both an object of curiosity and a resource for social or genealogical historical research.

The item is strictly described according to its visible side: a handwritten sheet in an elongated format, text in black ink on lined paper with colored margins, handwritten date "1925", mention "testament" (will) at the top, signature and address at the bottom of the page.

Condition

This handwritten will is a used document, sold as-is. Presence of storage folds, paper yellowed by time, ink partially patinated but text generally legible. No snags or major tears visible on the exposed side.

Did you know? In France, many handwritten wills from the early 20th century were drafted on standard lined paper, without direct notarial intervention, then stored at home or entrusted to a trusted custodian. This "holographic" mode of writing remains legal and authentic provided it is entirely written, dated, and signed by the testator's own hand.

AFW Reassurance

Careful packaging and fast shipping are ensured by a professional seller specializing in old documents and historical archives.

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