He did much to shape United States political institutions. He served on the Virginia Committee of Safety and drafted the state constitution, his declaration of rights being the first authoritative formulation of the doctrine of inalienable rights. His model was followed by most of the other states and was incorporated in the federal Constitution. Mason opposed slavery and his criticism helped bring about the adoption of the Bill of Rights. DS, signed “G. Mason,” one page, 6.5 x 7.25, November 30, 1791. A deposition written entirely in Mason's hand and signed, "G. Mason." Technically, document is signed three times, as Mason also provides two full-name, third-person signatures in the course of the deposition's content. In part, “The said George Mason, aged about sixty six years, being first duly sworn deposeth & sayeth that he has been intimately acquainted with the honourable Mr. Richard Parker (now one of the Judges of the General Court) from an early Period of both their lives, that he has for many years been well acquainted with the Hand-writing of the said Mr. Richard Parker, and that he hath this Day seen and examined two Manuscripts (of which the Papers hereunto, underneath, annexed, marked No. 1 and No.2 are true copies) which said two manuscripts the Deponent verily believes are the Hand-writing of the said Mr. Richard Parker; of which the Deponent is as certain, as he can be of any thing of that nature - and further the Deponent sayeth not." Fragile and in very good condition, with professional restoration and repair along folds as well as attention to mounting remnants on reverse, mild overall toning and some light soiling. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
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