Original Spanish colonial handwritten legal manuscript dated “Cali, julio 11 de 1810,” from Santiago de Cali in present-day Colombia.

The document is written in period Spanish script on official royal stamped paper, or “papel sellado.” At the upper left is a crowned Spanish fiscal seal reading approximately “Sello IIII, Dos Rs,” denoting fourth-class stamped paper valued at two reales. Printed validations for the years 1808–1809 and 1810–1811 are also visible.

The handwritten text appears to concern a legal or notarial proceeding and includes references to testimony, an oath and witnesses. The document dates from an especially significant moment in Colombian history—only days after Cali established a local governing junta in July 1810, at the beginning of the independence era. No claim is made that the document itself relates directly to the independence movement.

Presented under glass in a later wood frame with a deep red backing and decorative inner molding.

CONDITION:
The antique paper has substantial age-related wear, including irregular edges, folds, discoloration, fading, small holes, insect losses and areas of separation. The red color visible through the manuscript is primarily the backing showing through losses in the paper. Writing and official stamps remain substantially visible. The frame has normal surface wear. The document has not been removed from the frame, and the reverse has not been examined.

Please review all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition description.

This has not been authenticated but is truly a wonderful antique.

A scarce and visually compelling piece of early nineteenth-century Spanish colonial history, suitable for collectors of Colombian history, antique manuscripts, legal documents, fiscal paper and Latin American material.