Legal Definitions - obsignator

An obsignator is a term originating from Roman law that refers to an individual who formally affixes a seal to a document. This act was typically performed to confirm the authenticity or execution of the document, especially when the individual was acting as a witness.

Here are some examples illustrating the role of an obsignator:

• Imagine a wealthy Roman citizen preparing their last will and testament. To ensure its validity and prevent disputes after their death, they might invite several trusted friends or respected community members to be present during the signing. After the will is signed, one of these individuals, acting as an obsignator, would apply their personal seal to the document. This seal served as a formal declaration that they witnessed the will's creation and signing, thereby lending credibility to the document.

• Consider a formal agreement between two Roman families regarding the sale of a valuable estate. To make the transaction legally binding and publicly recognized, a local magistrate might be called upon to oversee the signing. Once both parties have affixed their signatures, the magistrate, in the role of an obsignator, would apply their official seal to the contract. This act signified that the magistrate had witnessed the agreement and confirmed its proper execution, adding a layer of legal authority to the document.

• In the context of a public decree or an official proclamation issued by a Roman governor, there might be a requirement for formal witnessing. A high-ranking scribe or a trusted aide to the governor could be designated to ensure the decree was properly written and issued. After the governor's signature, this individual, acting as an obsignator, would apply the official provincial seal to the document. This action would formally attest to the decree's authenticity and its official release, making it binding for the public.