ondertekenaarstekening

Ondertekenaarstekening is a Dutch term that refers to a drawing associated with a signatory, often intended to aid identification or to accompany the act of signing. The word derives from ondertekenaar (signer) and tekening (drawing). The term is not commonly used in contemporary administrative language and is more likely encountered in historical texts, autograph studies, or archival descriptions.

In practice, an ondertekenaarstekening can take several forms. It may be a small portrait, monogram, crest, emblem, or other illustrative element linked to the person who signs a document. Historically, such drawings were sometimes included to verify the identity of the signatory, to convey status, or to serve ceremonial or decorative purposes alongside the signature. In archival catalogs, a document may be described as having an associated ondertekenaarstekening when the signatory’s likeness or mark is present on or with the record.

In the field of autograph collecting and manuscript studies, the term is used descriptively to indicate drawings that accompany signatures and help authenticate authorship. In modern legal practice, the emphasis is typically on the handtekening (signature) itself, with identity verification relying on official documents or seals rather than illustrative drawings.

See also: handtekening, autograph, notary, archival description.