Lot 2094
  • 2094

EDWARD HAND. AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED, 4 FEBRUARY 1790, TO JASPER YEATS

Estimate
2,000 - 3,000 USD
bidding is closed

Description

  • Autograph letter signed, ("Edw Hand") to Jasper Yeats, on Framing a new Constitution for Pennsylvania
2 pages, (8 1/8 x 6 3/4 in.; 207 x 172 mm) on a bifolium, Philadelphia, 4 February 1790, docketed on the integral address leaf: "Philad Feb 4 1790 | Edward Hand Esq"; Lightly browned, loss to corner of second leaf not affecting text, remnant of adhesive strip where previously mounted along verso of second leaf, slightly obscuring docket text. 

Condition

2 pages, (8 1/8 x 6 3/4 in.; 207 x 172 mm) on a bifolium, Philadelphia, 4 February 1790, docketed on the integral address leaf: "Philad Feb 4 1790 | Edward Hand Esq"; Lightly browned, loss to corner of second leaf not affecting text, remnant of adhesive strip where previously mounted along verso of second leaf, slightly obscuring docket text.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Catalogue Note

Edward Hand here apprises Pennsylvania political ally Jasper Yeats of recent developments at the state convention for framing a new constitution: "Some time ago I forwarded you the plan of the Legislative Branch, & now send those for the Executive & Judicial, as agreed on by the Committee of the whole".  The new Pennsylvania Constitution was passed just two days following this letter, on 6 February 1790. Whereas the 1776 state constitution was characterized by a dominant, unicameral legislature, Pennsylvania Republicans (most of whom were Federalists in national politics) sought a bicameral legislature and a stronger executive on the model of both the Massachusetts constitution of 1780 and the U.S. Constitution.