18th CENTURY "UNIVERSITY OF AVIGNON" VELLUM LAW DIPLOMA [Signed]

France: 1757. Magnificent and highly decorative 1757 University of Avignon vellum law diploma granting a Licentiate in Canon and Civil Law (“Licentia in Jure Canonico et Civili”), executed entirely by hand in Latin manuscript on a large sheet of genuine vellum during the papacy of Benedict XIV. This striking ancien régime university document was issued by the historic University of Avignon, one of the most important ecclesiastical and legal centers in southern France, long associated with papal authority dating back to the Avignon Papacy. The diploma names the recipient as Antonius Franciscus Peyre (Antoine François Peyre) and references senior university and papal legal officials including Josephus de Poulle, identified with the title “Auditor Sacri Palatii Apostolici,” indicating ties to the broader papal legal-academic system rather than merely a local institution. The text repeatedly references Canon Law, Civil Law, French Law (“Juris Gallici”), and the authority of the University of Avignon (“Universitatis Avenionensis”), underscoring the document’s importance within 18th century legal and ecclesiastical education.

Dated 1757 during the reign of Pope Benedict XIV, this is a superb example of an 18th century European university manuscript diploma with strong appeal to collectors of legal history, ecclesiastical history, papal material, university memorabilia, and decorative manuscript art. An outstanding display piece with tremendous wall presence.

In Good condition. Framed under glass measuring 19 in. x 17.5 in. Vellum remains intact with expected age-related folds, waviness, cockling, creasing, and minor staining consistent with authentic 18th century vellum manuscripts. Ink remains dark and attractive overall. Shelved at Rockville Room J (MW Shelf).

1412267

Special Collections - Upstairs

Price: $775