George III By the Grace of God - London Legal Document with Seal

Ornate 2 page legal ’Recovery’ on vellum from the reign of George III outlining an agreement made between the gentleman James Shepnitt (the demander) and the gentleman Thomas Southouse (the tenant) in relation to 160 acres of land covering numerous named parishes within London. Witnessed by lawyer and judge Sir William de Grey, Knight of Westminster on the eighth day of [July] in the twentieth year of [.....]. Also naming Thomas Francis, Tenant. Incorporates a blue 5 shilling revenue stamp and to the reverse is a later addition Office of Works stamp dated 20 May 1881 numbered A6244.

PHYSICAL CONDITION: Both vellum sheets are in good condition, creased along top edges where they have been folded, age spotted and soiled to rears. Fronts remain clean and legible. Ornately decorated to edges. No holes or tears. Measure 63 cm x 84 cm. A contemporary steel drum containing original seal is attached by ribbon acting as a weight - the seal is damaged and only partially complete.