The «optimus maximusque» clause in Roman real estate sales: new evidence of coherence and pluralism in the relationship between jurisprudence and provincial practice

The contractual clause «ut/uti optimus maximusque esset/est» has been at the centre of Roman jurists' debate on real estate sales for centuries. The opinions collected in the Digest give relevance to this expression and its legal consequences, especially to the general duty of oportere ex fide bona. The cases examined by Roman jurisprudence are emblematic (D. 18.1.59; D.21.2.48; D.21.2.75; D.50.16.90; D.50.16.126; D.50.16.169). Moreover, the writings of the Gromatici Veteres reveal interesting clues about the consistency of local legal practice (110.15-21 Th. = 146.15-20 L.). A comparison with the findings discovered in the Iberian Peninsula (FIRA III 92), in Britannia (P12 = RIB II 2443.13) and in Dacia (FIRA III 90) shows compelling results regarding Roman legal practice. Indirect confirmations of the contractual clause’s gradual evolution can be found in some papyri from Ravenna (p.ital.2.30 = chla.20.706; p.ital.2.31 = chla.20.707; p.ital.2.35 = chla.3.181; p.ital.2.36 = chla.21.715; p.ital.2.37 = chla.21.716 = FIRA III 140). A recent find (AE 2016, 2029) brings new light about this topic.