Henry Fielding (1707–1754), author of Tom Jones and Joseph Andrews and one of the founding figures of the English novel, signs here not as a writer but in his equally consequential role as a magistrate of Westminster. The document is a sworn affidavit by one William Monks, identified as "late of Northend in the parish of Fulham y County of Middlesex Esq," attesting that his son John Monks and his daughters Anna Maria and Dorothy, nominees in three Annuity Orders of 1745 and three Annuity Orders of 1746, "were all living at Westminster since Midsummer day last." The document is signed by Monks himself as "W. Wm Monks" and sworn before "H. Fielding," whose bold signature appears at the foot of the document, dated "this 27 June 1750."
Fielding was appointed Justice of the Peace for Westminster and Middlesex in 1748, two years after the publication of Tom Jones, and threw himself into the role with characteristic energy. He used his position to campaign against crime and corruption in London, and in 1750 founded the Bow Street Runners, widely regarded as the precursor to the modern police force. This document dates from precisely that foundational period of his magisterial career. Signed legal documents bearing Fielding's name in his judicial capacity are genuinely rare; most collectors know him only through his literary persona, making this a striking crossover piece.
Estimate: $3,500–$6,000
*Autograph document signed, one page on folded bifolium, dark brown ink; approximately 9 x 7.5 inches; dated 27 June 1750; signed "H. Fielding" as magistrate and "W. Wm Monks" as deponent; toned with age, some light soiling, a few small losses to fold edges, overall good condition for age (IMG_291.jpg).*
This item will be accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from One of a Kind Collectibles.