Chain line

Meaning

Lemma.

Pontuseaux are the more widely spaced mould marks visible in laid paper, called chain lines in the edition. Élodie holds assignats against the light to inspect them along with the finer vergeures and watermark. The term records practical authentication through manufacture, not a close reading of the printed denomination. This exacting material attention contrasts with the political atmosphere in which passing a false note can make someone appear an accomplice of a foreign enemy.