Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
- (-) Remove document filter document
- and (22) Apply and filter
- eretz (16) Apply eretz filter
- israel (16) Apply israel filter
- jerusalem (16) Apply jerusalem filter
- letter (16) Apply letter filter
- letters, (16) Apply letters, filter
- manuscript (16) Apply manuscript filter
- ketubot (6) Apply ketubot filter
- marriag (6) Apply marriag filter
Displaying 1 - 12 of 22
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $400
Sold for: $500
Including buyer's premium
Parchment ketubah, recording the wedding of the groom Moshe son of Yosef Benzacar, with the bride Chana daughter of Aharon Benedit. Bordeaux (France), 1862.
At the foot of the ketubah, signatures of the groom (in French) and the witnesses, including the rabbi of the city: "David son of R. Yitzchak Marx, rabbi in this community and the vicinity". Followed by other signatures (including: "Avraham Casparo, first cantor").
The upper part of the ketubah is decorated with a small bouquet, painted in red and green, with the customary wish: BeSiman Tov.
24 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains, creases and folding marks. Framed.
At the foot of the ketubah, signatures of the groom (in French) and the witnesses, including the rabbi of the city: "David son of R. Yitzchak Marx, rabbi in this community and the vicinity". Followed by other signatures (including: "Avraham Casparo, first cantor").
The upper part of the ketubah is decorated with a small bouquet, painted in red and green, with the customary wish: BeSiman Tov.
24 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains, creases and folding marks. Framed.
Category
Ketubot and marriage documents
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $4,000
Unsold
Ketubah recording the marriage of the groom Moshe son of R. Avraham Nehemias, to the bride Orovida daughter of R. Menachem Bubdy. Gibraltar, 1778.
Handwritten on parchment. Sephardic semi-cursive script, within a border formed by an architectural arch, with foliate decorations. The arch is inscribed with the following verses: "He who has found a wife has found good, and has obtained favor from G-d - May G-d make the woman who is entering".
In a medallion at the foot of the columns, the second verse is repeated: "May G-d make the woman who is entering your home like Rachel and like Leah".
The text of the ketubah follows the customs of the megorashim (Spanish exiles in Gibraltar), who suffered the persecution of the Spanish Inquisition (see following article). The ketubah concludes: "And everything according to the custom, conditions and regulations which were observed and instituted in the holy communities which were exiled from Castile, may G-d avenge them, have mercy and console their surviving remnants now and forever…".
At the foot of the ketubah, the signatures of the two witnesses - Torah scholars of Gibraltar: "Shmuel Bibas (he may have written the entire ketubah) and "Chasdai Almosnino". The signature of the groom (in Spanish), appears between the signatures of the witnesses. R. Shmuel Bibas (Otzar HaRabbanim 19043), rabbi in Gibraltar, father of R. Yehuda Bibas who served as rabbi of Corfu and later of Hebron. R. Chasdai Almosnino was also a rabbi of Gibraltar. He is presumably the son of R. Yitzchak Almosnino, first chief rabbi of Gibraltar.
[1] parchment leaf. 41 cm. Fair-good condition. Stains, creases and folding marks. Framed (53X60 cm).
This is the earliest ketubah from Gibraltar known to us. The NLI catalog features only three ketubot from the end of the 18th century, the earliest of them is dated 1786.
Handwritten on parchment. Sephardic semi-cursive script, within a border formed by an architectural arch, with foliate decorations. The arch is inscribed with the following verses: "He who has found a wife has found good, and has obtained favor from G-d - May G-d make the woman who is entering".
In a medallion at the foot of the columns, the second verse is repeated: "May G-d make the woman who is entering your home like Rachel and like Leah".
The text of the ketubah follows the customs of the megorashim (Spanish exiles in Gibraltar), who suffered the persecution of the Spanish Inquisition (see following article). The ketubah concludes: "And everything according to the custom, conditions and regulations which were observed and instituted in the holy communities which were exiled from Castile, may G-d avenge them, have mercy and console their surviving remnants now and forever…".
At the foot of the ketubah, the signatures of the two witnesses - Torah scholars of Gibraltar: "Shmuel Bibas (he may have written the entire ketubah) and "Chasdai Almosnino". The signature of the groom (in Spanish), appears between the signatures of the witnesses. R. Shmuel Bibas (Otzar HaRabbanim 19043), rabbi in Gibraltar, father of R. Yehuda Bibas who served as rabbi of Corfu and later of Hebron. R. Chasdai Almosnino was also a rabbi of Gibraltar. He is presumably the son of R. Yitzchak Almosnino, first chief rabbi of Gibraltar.
[1] parchment leaf. 41 cm. Fair-good condition. Stains, creases and folding marks. Framed (53X60 cm).
This is the earliest ketubah from Gibraltar known to us. The NLI catalog features only three ketubot from the end of the 18th century, the earliest of them is dated 1786.
Category
Ketubot and marriage documents
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $1,000
Unsold
Ketubah recording the marriage of the groom Refael Avraham son of R. Yaakov Bendahan, with the bride Esther Evelina daughter of R. David Benabu. Gibraltar, Tishrei 1911.
The ketubah is inscribed on a large parchment leaf, with color decorations (brown, gold, green, red, yellow and blue). The ketubah is topped with an elaborate, bejeweled, gilt crown, surrounded by the customary wishes: "BeSimna Tava…". A large basket filled with flowers forms a frame around the ketubah. The handle of the basket is entwined with intricate flowers and ribbons. The text of the ketubah is inscribed in neat Sephardic, semi-cursive script, the word "Chai" is emphasized and enlarged.
At the foot of the leaf, a monogram with the initials of the names of the groom and bride.
The artist's signature appears in the lower, right-hand corner: D. M. Benabu.
The text of the ketubah follows the custom of the megorashim (Spanish exiles who reached Gibraltar), who suffered the persecution of the Spanish Inquisition (see article). The ketubah concludes: "And everything according to the custom, conditions and regulations which were observed and instituted in the holy communities which were exiled from Castile, may G-d avenge them, have mercy and console their surviving remnants now and forever…".
Beneath the text of the ketubah, the signatures of the groom and two witnesses: "Rachman Naim" (R. Refael Chaim Moshe son of Naim, rabbi of Gibraltar); "Yehoshua Gabbai of the Niftzot Yehuda community".
Parchment leaf. 75X65 cm. Good-fair condition. Many creases, affecting ornaments in several places.
This elegant ketubah follows the traditional style of ornamented ketubot prevalent in the 19th and early 20th century in Gibraltar, while at the same time expressing the emergence of modern art, and it serves as a unique example of the end of this tradition.
The ketubah is inscribed on a large parchment leaf, with color decorations (brown, gold, green, red, yellow and blue). The ketubah is topped with an elaborate, bejeweled, gilt crown, surrounded by the customary wishes: "BeSimna Tava…". A large basket filled with flowers forms a frame around the ketubah. The handle of the basket is entwined with intricate flowers and ribbons. The text of the ketubah is inscribed in neat Sephardic, semi-cursive script, the word "Chai" is emphasized and enlarged.
At the foot of the leaf, a monogram with the initials of the names of the groom and bride.
The artist's signature appears in the lower, right-hand corner: D. M. Benabu.
The text of the ketubah follows the custom of the megorashim (Spanish exiles who reached Gibraltar), who suffered the persecution of the Spanish Inquisition (see article). The ketubah concludes: "And everything according to the custom, conditions and regulations which were observed and instituted in the holy communities which were exiled from Castile, may G-d avenge them, have mercy and console their surviving remnants now and forever…".
Beneath the text of the ketubah, the signatures of the groom and two witnesses: "Rachman Naim" (R. Refael Chaim Moshe son of Naim, rabbi of Gibraltar); "Yehoshua Gabbai of the Niftzot Yehuda community".
Parchment leaf. 75X65 cm. Good-fair condition. Many creases, affecting ornaments in several places.
This elegant ketubah follows the traditional style of ornamented ketubot prevalent in the 19th and early 20th century in Gibraltar, while at the same time expressing the emergence of modern art, and it serves as a unique example of the end of this tradition.
Category
Ketubot and marriage documents
Catalogue
![Samaritan marriage contract (ketubah). Nablus (Shechem), [1905]. Ink on paper. Samaritan script. This marriage contract follo](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale67-public/16.jpg "Samaritan Marriage Contract - Nablus, 1905")
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $500
Unsold
Samaritan marriage contract (ketubah). Nablus (Shechem), [1905].
Ink on paper. Samaritan script.
This marriage contract follows the typical text of ketubbot in the Samaritan community in Nablus. The text begins with: "In the name of Hashem, G-d of Israel, we will begin and end", and continues with a poem. The text is placed within a geometric border in red ink, topped by a dome-shaped decoration.
69.5X49.5 cm. Good condition. Folding marks and many creases. Stains. Several light tears. Marginal pen inscription (in Hebrew).
The Samaritan alphabet is based on the Paleo-Hebrew alphabet, which was the script used by Jews in early times, before Ketav Ashuri (square script) was adopted. The Samaritan marriage contract is customarily signed by the priest, the two witnesses, the groom and father of the bride. After the conclusion of the reading of the marriage contract, in a special ceremony during the wedding, the marriage contract is handed over to the father of the bride, and according to the Samaritan custom, is never opened following the wedding, except in the case of a divorce.
Ink on paper. Samaritan script.
This marriage contract follows the typical text of ketubbot in the Samaritan community in Nablus. The text begins with: "In the name of Hashem, G-d of Israel, we will begin and end", and continues with a poem. The text is placed within a geometric border in red ink, topped by a dome-shaped decoration.
69.5X49.5 cm. Good condition. Folding marks and many creases. Stains. Several light tears. Marginal pen inscription (in Hebrew).
The Samaritan alphabet is based on the Paleo-Hebrew alphabet, which was the script used by Jews in early times, before Ketav Ashuri (square script) was adopted. The Samaritan marriage contract is customarily signed by the priest, the two witnesses, the groom and father of the bride. After the conclusion of the reading of the marriage contract, in a special ceremony during the wedding, the marriage contract is handed over to the father of the bride, and according to the Samaritan custom, is never opened following the wedding, except in the case of a divorce.
Category
Ketubot and marriage documents
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $1,500
Unsold
Six parchment ketubot from Italy:
1. Parchment ketubah, recording the wedding of the groom David Lopez Miranda, with the bride Donna Rachel daughter of Emmanuel Almeida. Livorno, 1735. The upper part contains the text of the ketubah, and the lower part the text of the tena'im. At the foot of the text of the ketubah, the signatures of the witnesses: "Gabriel del Rio" (leading Livorno Torah scholar, rabbi of the city, a supporter of the Ramchal in the polemic against him, gave his approbation to the book Shomer Emunim by R. Yosef Ergas, immigrated to Eretz Israel, where he passed away in 1738) and "Yitzchak Enriquez". With the signature of the groom (in Italian). These same witnesses signed at the bottom of the tena'im (in Hebrew and Italian), as well as the groom (in Italian).
2. Parchment ketubah, recording the wedding of the groom Avraham son of Mordechai Gallichi, with the bride Esther daughter of Yitzchak Malach. Livorno, 1822. The text of the ketubah is inscribed in the upper part of the leaf, and the text of the tena'im, below. Signatures (in Italian) of the groom and the two witnesses: "Samuel di Sabbato Sahadun" and "Benedetto Ascarelli".
3. Parchment ketubah, recording the wedding of the groom Shmuel son of Yaakov Refael Yishmael Lumbroso, with the bride Chana daughter of Daniel Camis de Fonseca. Livorno, 1836. The text of the ketubah is inscribed in the upper part of the leaf, and that of the tena'im below. The signatures of the groom, bride and two witnesses (in Italian): "Abram Benedetto Piperno" (R. Avraham Baruch Piperno, scribe of the Livorno community and one of its Torah scholars) and "David Ottolenghi".
4. Parchment ketubah, recording the wedding of the groom Moshe Chaim son of Mordechai Montecorboli, with the bride Chana daughter of Avraham Archivolti. Livorno, 1864. Written by the scribe Reuven son of Binyamin Funaro (who mentions his name in the text of the ketubah). Signed (in Italian), by the groom and bride, and the two witnesses: "D. Guttieres" and "Alberto Tedeschi", and by the scribe.
5. Parchment ketubah, recording the wedding of the groom Shmuel son of Moshe dello Strologo, with the bride Adele daughter of Yitzchak Baruch Eminente. Massa Ducale (Massa, Tuscany), 1849. The text of the ketubah is inscribed in the upper part of the leaf, followed by an official document in Italian, written in Livorno two days later. The ketubah and tena'im are written following the Livorno custom. With the (Italian) signatures of the groom, bride and two witnesses.
6. Parchment ketubah, recording the wedding of the groom Rachamim Carlo son of Yaakov Ashkenazi, with the bride Bracha Virginia daughter of Michael Treves. Torino, 1887. Unsigned. Upper part trimmed.
6 Ketubot, size varies (average height: 40 cm). Overall good condition. Stains and creases.
1. Parchment ketubah, recording the wedding of the groom David Lopez Miranda, with the bride Donna Rachel daughter of Emmanuel Almeida. Livorno, 1735. The upper part contains the text of the ketubah, and the lower part the text of the tena'im. At the foot of the text of the ketubah, the signatures of the witnesses: "Gabriel del Rio" (leading Livorno Torah scholar, rabbi of the city, a supporter of the Ramchal in the polemic against him, gave his approbation to the book Shomer Emunim by R. Yosef Ergas, immigrated to Eretz Israel, where he passed away in 1738) and "Yitzchak Enriquez". With the signature of the groom (in Italian). These same witnesses signed at the bottom of the tena'im (in Hebrew and Italian), as well as the groom (in Italian).
2. Parchment ketubah, recording the wedding of the groom Avraham son of Mordechai Gallichi, with the bride Esther daughter of Yitzchak Malach. Livorno, 1822. The text of the ketubah is inscribed in the upper part of the leaf, and the text of the tena'im, below. Signatures (in Italian) of the groom and the two witnesses: "Samuel di Sabbato Sahadun" and "Benedetto Ascarelli".
3. Parchment ketubah, recording the wedding of the groom Shmuel son of Yaakov Refael Yishmael Lumbroso, with the bride Chana daughter of Daniel Camis de Fonseca. Livorno, 1836. The text of the ketubah is inscribed in the upper part of the leaf, and that of the tena'im below. The signatures of the groom, bride and two witnesses (in Italian): "Abram Benedetto Piperno" (R. Avraham Baruch Piperno, scribe of the Livorno community and one of its Torah scholars) and "David Ottolenghi".
4. Parchment ketubah, recording the wedding of the groom Moshe Chaim son of Mordechai Montecorboli, with the bride Chana daughter of Avraham Archivolti. Livorno, 1864. Written by the scribe Reuven son of Binyamin Funaro (who mentions his name in the text of the ketubah). Signed (in Italian), by the groom and bride, and the two witnesses: "D. Guttieres" and "Alberto Tedeschi", and by the scribe.
5. Parchment ketubah, recording the wedding of the groom Shmuel son of Moshe dello Strologo, with the bride Adele daughter of Yitzchak Baruch Eminente. Massa Ducale (Massa, Tuscany), 1849. The text of the ketubah is inscribed in the upper part of the leaf, followed by an official document in Italian, written in Livorno two days later. The ketubah and tena'im are written following the Livorno custom. With the (Italian) signatures of the groom, bride and two witnesses.
6. Parchment ketubah, recording the wedding of the groom Rachamim Carlo son of Yaakov Ashkenazi, with the bride Bracha Virginia daughter of Michael Treves. Torino, 1887. Unsigned. Upper part trimmed.
6 Ketubot, size varies (average height: 40 cm). Overall good condition. Stains and creases.
Category
Ketubot and marriage documents
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $400
Unsold
Three parchment ketubot from Italy:
1. Parchment ketubah, recording the marriage of the groom Yaakov Menachem son of Yisrael of della Volta, to the bride Mazal Tov daughter of Zerachya Chai. Mantua, 1767. Signed by the witnesses: "Shlomo Refael son of R. Zerachya Chai", "Yekutiel Chaim son of R. Hillel Katz". 37X36 cm.
2. Parchment ketubah, recording the marriage of the groom Avraham Yosef son of Eliezer Almansi, to the bride Dolce Perna daughter of David Yehuda Levi-Mortera. Viadana, 1768. 44X34.5 cm.
3. Parchment ketubah, recording the marriage of the groom Shimshon "known as Ercole" son of Yisrael Shimshon Calabrese of Mantua, to the bride Vittoria daughter of Yisrael Ravà. Reggio, 19th Tevet 1866. Signatures of the witnesses: "Yitzchak Shimshon son of Yeshaya Malach" (a posek in Reggio); "Yaakov son of R. Mordechai Levi". 14.5X34.5 cm.
Three ketubot. Condition varies, good-fair.
From the estate of Prof. Shlomo Simonsohn.
1. Parchment ketubah, recording the marriage of the groom Yaakov Menachem son of Yisrael of della Volta, to the bride Mazal Tov daughter of Zerachya Chai. Mantua, 1767. Signed by the witnesses: "Shlomo Refael son of R. Zerachya Chai", "Yekutiel Chaim son of R. Hillel Katz". 37X36 cm.
2. Parchment ketubah, recording the marriage of the groom Avraham Yosef son of Eliezer Almansi, to the bride Dolce Perna daughter of David Yehuda Levi-Mortera. Viadana, 1768. 44X34.5 cm.
3. Parchment ketubah, recording the marriage of the groom Shimshon "known as Ercole" son of Yisrael Shimshon Calabrese of Mantua, to the bride Vittoria daughter of Yisrael Ravà. Reggio, 19th Tevet 1866. Signatures of the witnesses: "Yitzchak Shimshon son of Yeshaya Malach" (a posek in Reggio); "Yaakov son of R. Mordechai Levi". 14.5X34.5 cm.
Three ketubot. Condition varies, good-fair.
From the estate of Prof. Shlomo Simonsohn.
Category
Ketubot and marriage documents
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $300
Unsold
Two documents pertaining to the Hebron emissaries R. Chaim Rachamim Bajaio and R. Yitzchak Ze'evi:
• Letter signed by R. Chaim Rachamim Bajaio and R. Yitzchak Ze'evi, during the course of their mission. Turin, Cheshvan 1767.
Addressed to "The wealthy, wise, benevolent… brothers, who provided us with fine lodgings, R. Yitzchak and R. Azriel Cohen Vitali" of Alessandria. In their letter, the emissaries express their appreciation to the brothers for their kind hospitality, and outline their projected itinerary: "We are presently in Turin, and will travel tomorrow to Nizza (Monferrato), and from there to the four communities…". They request to clarify a certain topic pertaining to the donation made by the wealthy Yoel Cohen Vitali, and inquire of the wellbeing of the rabbi of Alessandria (R. Eliyahu HaLevi), the wealthy members of the community and their families, and extend their blessings to everyone.
Double leaf. Leaf folded for sending by post, address of brothers in Italian on verso, with remnants of wax seal. 23 cm. Stains, dampstains, folding marks. Small tear to place of opening letter, not affecting text.
• Printed pamphlet, Molto illustri signori - Emissary letter of R. Chaim Rachamim Bajaio and R. Yitzchak Ze'evi, in Italian. [Italy, ca. 1763-1772]. At the top of the emissary letter, list of places to which the emissaries (or the letter) were sent, including England and America: "…Keilot D'Italia, Romagna, Francia, Olanda, Inghilterra & America".
R. Chaim Rachamim Bajaio and R. Yitzchak Ze'evi, two leading Hebron Torah scholars, left for Europe on a mission in 1763. Their mission extended over nine years. During the course of their travels, they generated extensive publicity in favor of their mission, including by printing this emissary letter in French and Italian. The emissaries reached Turin in 1767, and from there sent out this letter. In Turin, R. Yitzchak Ze'evi wrote a responsum regarding a case of a marriage which took place in Savigliano in 1764. He also fell ill there, and was unable to continue on his travels. R. Chaim Rachamim thus continued on his own to southern France, and from there travelled to Holland, where he was joined by R. Yitzchak Ze'evi, who had meanwhile recovered. In 1769, they both accorded their approbation to Chiddushei HaMe'iri on Tractate Megillah in Amsterdam, signing: "So say the emissaries of Hebron". From Holland, they continued to northern Germany. In 1770, R. Yitzchak Ze'evi gave his approbation to the books Pirkei Rabbi Eliya and Yesod Mora printed in Hamburg. Upon completing their mission, they both returned to Italy, and in 1772, they granted their approbation to Nahar Shalom by R. Shabtai Ventura in Livorno. See more about their mission: Yaari, Sheluchei Eretz Israel, pp. 586-589.
[2] leaves. 31.5 cm. Good condition. Stains and wear, folding marks.
From the estate of Prof. Shlomo Simonsohn.
• Letter signed by R. Chaim Rachamim Bajaio and R. Yitzchak Ze'evi, during the course of their mission. Turin, Cheshvan 1767.
Addressed to "The wealthy, wise, benevolent… brothers, who provided us with fine lodgings, R. Yitzchak and R. Azriel Cohen Vitali" of Alessandria. In their letter, the emissaries express their appreciation to the brothers for their kind hospitality, and outline their projected itinerary: "We are presently in Turin, and will travel tomorrow to Nizza (Monferrato), and from there to the four communities…". They request to clarify a certain topic pertaining to the donation made by the wealthy Yoel Cohen Vitali, and inquire of the wellbeing of the rabbi of Alessandria (R. Eliyahu HaLevi), the wealthy members of the community and their families, and extend their blessings to everyone.
Double leaf. Leaf folded for sending by post, address of brothers in Italian on verso, with remnants of wax seal. 23 cm. Stains, dampstains, folding marks. Small tear to place of opening letter, not affecting text.
• Printed pamphlet, Molto illustri signori - Emissary letter of R. Chaim Rachamim Bajaio and R. Yitzchak Ze'evi, in Italian. [Italy, ca. 1763-1772]. At the top of the emissary letter, list of places to which the emissaries (or the letter) were sent, including England and America: "…Keilot D'Italia, Romagna, Francia, Olanda, Inghilterra & America".
R. Chaim Rachamim Bajaio and R. Yitzchak Ze'evi, two leading Hebron Torah scholars, left for Europe on a mission in 1763. Their mission extended over nine years. During the course of their travels, they generated extensive publicity in favor of their mission, including by printing this emissary letter in French and Italian. The emissaries reached Turin in 1767, and from there sent out this letter. In Turin, R. Yitzchak Ze'evi wrote a responsum regarding a case of a marriage which took place in Savigliano in 1764. He also fell ill there, and was unable to continue on his travels. R. Chaim Rachamim thus continued on his own to southern France, and from there travelled to Holland, where he was joined by R. Yitzchak Ze'evi, who had meanwhile recovered. In 1769, they both accorded their approbation to Chiddushei HaMe'iri on Tractate Megillah in Amsterdam, signing: "So say the emissaries of Hebron". From Holland, they continued to northern Germany. In 1770, R. Yitzchak Ze'evi gave his approbation to the books Pirkei Rabbi Eliya and Yesod Mora printed in Hamburg. Upon completing their mission, they both returned to Italy, and in 1772, they granted their approbation to Nahar Shalom by R. Shabtai Ventura in Livorno. See more about their mission: Yaari, Sheluchei Eretz Israel, pp. 586-589.
[2] leaves. 31.5 cm. Good condition. Stains and wear, folding marks.
From the estate of Prof. Shlomo Simonsohn.
Category
Jerusalem and Eretz Israel - Letters, Manuscripts and Documents
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $400
Unsold
Letter handwritten and signed by R. Refael Moshe son of R. Shmuel Meyuchas, emissary of Jerusalem. "Twatzene" (Quatzenheim, Alsace, France), 21st Av 1791.
Letter acknowledging receipt of donation (Machatzit HaShekel monies) for the benefit of "Kollelot of the Holy City", from "the wise and exalted philanthropist, trusted gabbai and trustee of Eretz Israel, R. Gumper known as Efraim son of Yaakov". The emissary blesses him for his donation: "He shall receive blessing from G-d, lengthy years of life for him and his sons amongst the Jewish people…".
The letter is signed with the elaborate calligraphic signature of R. Refael Moshe Meyuchas: "Refael Meyuchas Moshe son of R. Shmuel".
R. Refael Moshe son of R. Shmuel Meyuchas (the second, d. 1824), leading Jerusalem Torah scholar and emissary of the Beit El yeshiva of Jerusalem in Europe. During the course of his travels, he reached the communities of Germany, Poland, Italy, France, the Netherlands and even London. An approbation he accorded during his stay in Hamburg is printed at the end of LeDarchei David (by R. David Meldola, at the end of part I of his book Darchei David, Amsterdam 1794). In the title of the approbation, he is referred to as: "A holy man, emissary, who came to seek support for our brethren in Jerusalem… the perfect Torah scholar, the exacting scribe of holy lineage, R. Refael Meyuchas Moshe…" (see: Ben-Yaakov, Yerushalayim Bein HaChomot, pp. 224-226).
[1] double leaf. 17.5 cm. Good condition. Stains, minor marginal wear.
Letter acknowledging receipt of donation (Machatzit HaShekel monies) for the benefit of "Kollelot of the Holy City", from "the wise and exalted philanthropist, trusted gabbai and trustee of Eretz Israel, R. Gumper known as Efraim son of Yaakov". The emissary blesses him for his donation: "He shall receive blessing from G-d, lengthy years of life for him and his sons amongst the Jewish people…".
The letter is signed with the elaborate calligraphic signature of R. Refael Moshe Meyuchas: "Refael Meyuchas Moshe son of R. Shmuel".
R. Refael Moshe son of R. Shmuel Meyuchas (the second, d. 1824), leading Jerusalem Torah scholar and emissary of the Beit El yeshiva of Jerusalem in Europe. During the course of his travels, he reached the communities of Germany, Poland, Italy, France, the Netherlands and even London. An approbation he accorded during his stay in Hamburg is printed at the end of LeDarchei David (by R. David Meldola, at the end of part I of his book Darchei David, Amsterdam 1794). In the title of the approbation, he is referred to as: "A holy man, emissary, who came to seek support for our brethren in Jerusalem… the perfect Torah scholar, the exacting scribe of holy lineage, R. Refael Meyuchas Moshe…" (see: Ben-Yaakov, Yerushalayim Bein HaChomot, pp. 224-226).
[1] double leaf. 17.5 cm. Good condition. Stains, minor marginal wear.
Category
Jerusalem and Eretz Israel - Letters, Manuscripts and Documents
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $300
Unsold
Two lengthy letters of Torah thoughts - correspondence between R. Yitzchak Antebi and a Jerusalem Torah scholar. [Jerusalem and Aleppo, 1852].
Two letters: the first is a draft-letter of 12 pages, from an unidentified Torah scholar of Jerusalem named Yaakov (autograph, with deletions and emendations), responding to and challenging a halachic responsum by R. Yitzchak Antebi, and discussing it at length. The responsum by R. Yitzchak Antebi which this letter relates to was printed at the end of Mor VaAhalot (Livorno, 1843), by his father R. Avraham Antebi (the last responsum. Even HaEzer, section 13). The second letter is R. Yitzchak's response to this letter. To the best of our knowledge, both letters were never published.
We were unable to identify the Jerusalem Torah scholar. He appears to be named Yaakov, as he writes in his letter: "I will interpret, Yaakov the small one…", and as R. Yitzchak Antebi addresses him, with many titles of honor, including: "…the rabbi, may G-d of Yaakov come to his assistance…". R. Yitzchak concludes his letter: "So are the words of one who loves him faithfully and wholeheartedly, who signs here in Aleppo, 28th Elul 1852, Yitzchak Antebi".
R. Yitzchak Antebi (LiKedoshim Asher BaAretz, Jerusalem 1980, p. 146), a leading Torah scholar of Aleppo. He was the son of R. Avraham Antebi, who praises him profusely in his introduction to his book Mor VaAhalot. The rabbis of Aleppo describe him: "He has an arm with might in the battle of Torah…". His composition Chikekei Lev remains in manuscript form and only a few of his responsa were published.
Letter of R. Yitzchak Antebi: [2] leaves (7 written columns). 29.5 cm. Letter of the Jerusalem Torah scholar: [7] leaves (12 written pages). 21 cm. Fair condition. Stains and wear. Large tears. Worming.
Two letters: the first is a draft-letter of 12 pages, from an unidentified Torah scholar of Jerusalem named Yaakov (autograph, with deletions and emendations), responding to and challenging a halachic responsum by R. Yitzchak Antebi, and discussing it at length. The responsum by R. Yitzchak Antebi which this letter relates to was printed at the end of Mor VaAhalot (Livorno, 1843), by his father R. Avraham Antebi (the last responsum. Even HaEzer, section 13). The second letter is R. Yitzchak's response to this letter. To the best of our knowledge, both letters were never published.
We were unable to identify the Jerusalem Torah scholar. He appears to be named Yaakov, as he writes in his letter: "I will interpret, Yaakov the small one…", and as R. Yitzchak Antebi addresses him, with many titles of honor, including: "…the rabbi, may G-d of Yaakov come to his assistance…". R. Yitzchak concludes his letter: "So are the words of one who loves him faithfully and wholeheartedly, who signs here in Aleppo, 28th Elul 1852, Yitzchak Antebi".
R. Yitzchak Antebi (LiKedoshim Asher BaAretz, Jerusalem 1980, p. 146), a leading Torah scholar of Aleppo. He was the son of R. Avraham Antebi, who praises him profusely in his introduction to his book Mor VaAhalot. The rabbis of Aleppo describe him: "He has an arm with might in the battle of Torah…". His composition Chikekei Lev remains in manuscript form and only a few of his responsa were published.
Letter of R. Yitzchak Antebi: [2] leaves (7 written columns). 29.5 cm. Letter of the Jerusalem Torah scholar: [7] leaves (12 written pages). 21 cm. Fair condition. Stains and wear. Large tears. Worming.
Category
Jerusalem and Eretz Israel - Letters, Manuscripts and Documents
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $800
Unsold
Leaf containing eight letters handwritten and signed by rabbis and noted Torah scholars of Jerusalem and Tiberias. Jerusalem, Kislev-Av 1870-1871.
Letters of recommendation and commitment to purchase the book HaTzivi Tziyunim authored by R. Ben Tzion Shlez (the book was published in part in Jerusalem, 1871-1872).
• Letter from R. Tzvi Hirsch Berliner, son of R. Shlomo Hirschell Berlin Rabbi of London. • Letter from R. Yochanan Hirsh son of R. Mordechai Schlank (disciple of the Chatam Sofer, a founder of Kollel Holland and Deutschland). • Letter from R. Nachman Natan Coronel, author of Beit Natan. • Letter from Rabbi Moshe Nechemia Kahanov (leading Lithuanian rabbi, founder and dean of the Etz Chaim yeshiva in Jerusalem). • Letter from R. Moshe Eliezer Dan Ralbag (disciple and nephew of the Maharil Diskin. Dean of the Etz Chaim yeshiva). • Letter from R. Shalom son of R. Moshe (presumably, R. Shalom Silberstien of Boisk, see: Toldot Chachmei Yerushalayim, III, p. 272). • Letter from R. Yeshaya Reuven (Klinger) of Tiberias, rabbi of Săveni (immigrated to Eretz Israel from Romania in 1860; Encyclopedia LeYahadut Romania, II, p. 724). • Letter from R. Aharon Ze'ev Stuczynski of Hrodna (R. Wolf Stuczynski, head of Kollel Hrodna and of the Dorshei Tzion ViYerushalayim society in Grodno, see enclosed material).
[1] leaf (written on both sides). 19.5 cm. Fair condition. Stains, wear and tears. Damage to text in corner.
Letters of recommendation and commitment to purchase the book HaTzivi Tziyunim authored by R. Ben Tzion Shlez (the book was published in part in Jerusalem, 1871-1872).
• Letter from R. Tzvi Hirsch Berliner, son of R. Shlomo Hirschell Berlin Rabbi of London. • Letter from R. Yochanan Hirsh son of R. Mordechai Schlank (disciple of the Chatam Sofer, a founder of Kollel Holland and Deutschland). • Letter from R. Nachman Natan Coronel, author of Beit Natan. • Letter from Rabbi Moshe Nechemia Kahanov (leading Lithuanian rabbi, founder and dean of the Etz Chaim yeshiva in Jerusalem). • Letter from R. Moshe Eliezer Dan Ralbag (disciple and nephew of the Maharil Diskin. Dean of the Etz Chaim yeshiva). • Letter from R. Shalom son of R. Moshe (presumably, R. Shalom Silberstien of Boisk, see: Toldot Chachmei Yerushalayim, III, p. 272). • Letter from R. Yeshaya Reuven (Klinger) of Tiberias, rabbi of Săveni (immigrated to Eretz Israel from Romania in 1860; Encyclopedia LeYahadut Romania, II, p. 724). • Letter from R. Aharon Ze'ev Stuczynski of Hrodna (R. Wolf Stuczynski, head of Kollel Hrodna and of the Dorshei Tzion ViYerushalayim society in Grodno, see enclosed material).
[1] leaf (written on both sides). 19.5 cm. Fair condition. Stains, wear and tears. Damage to text in corner.
Category
Jerusalem and Eretz Israel - Letters, Manuscripts and Documents
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $300
Unsold
Leaf with calligraphic script, decorated in colored ink - letter of good year wishes for the upcoming new year of 1892-1893, from the trustees of Kollel Austria-Hungary. Jerusalem, [Elul 1892?].
Addressed to the treasurer of the Kollel, R. Avraham Tzvi Hash Rabbi of Široké (Slovakia). Signed by the trustees and directors of the Kollel, R. Tuviah Aryeh Goldberger and R. Yosef Binyamin Schag.
R. Tuvia Aryeh Goldberger, a leading rabbi and communal worker in Jerusalem. A disciple of R. Yirmiyah Löw Rabbi of Ujhel. He immigrated to Jerusalem in 1873, and was part of the initial group of dayanim in the Chassidic Beit Din in Jerusalem (lead by the Torat Chessed, Gaon of Lublin). He was an activist of Kollel Hungary and served as its trustee for twenty-three years together with R. Yosef Chaim Sonnenfeld.
[1] leaf. 27 cm. Fair condition. Wear and light damage. Tears to folds. Colored ink slightly faded.
Addressed to the treasurer of the Kollel, R. Avraham Tzvi Hash Rabbi of Široké (Slovakia). Signed by the trustees and directors of the Kollel, R. Tuviah Aryeh Goldberger and R. Yosef Binyamin Schag.
R. Tuvia Aryeh Goldberger, a leading rabbi and communal worker in Jerusalem. A disciple of R. Yirmiyah Löw Rabbi of Ujhel. He immigrated to Jerusalem in 1873, and was part of the initial group of dayanim in the Chassidic Beit Din in Jerusalem (lead by the Torat Chessed, Gaon of Lublin). He was an activist of Kollel Hungary and served as its trustee for twenty-three years together with R. Yosef Chaim Sonnenfeld.
[1] leaf. 27 cm. Fair condition. Wear and light damage. Tears to folds. Colored ink slightly faded.
Category
Jerusalem and Eretz Israel - Letters, Manuscripts and Documents
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $500
Unsold
Two leaves containing letters from the initial settlers of "Wadi el Chanin" (later: Ness Ziona) and from R. Naftali Hertz Rabbi of Jaffa, regarding the loan of a Torah scroll for the new synagogue being established in the moshava (settlement). Wadi Chanin and Jaffa, Elul 1893.
• Letter addressed to the Maharil Diskin in Jerusalem, signed by the settlers Mordechai Hochberg and Shlomo Yoffe. Their letter is followed by another letter (2 lines) handwritten and signed by R. Naftali Hertz HaLevi Rabbi of Jaffa and the moshavot, confirming that "there is in the Wadi Chanin colony (=moshava), approximately a minyan (prayer quorum) of men who are requesting as mentioned above… Monday, 23rd Elul 1893, so says Naftali Hertz HaLevi, residing here Jaffa".
The settlers relate in their letter that a "large and magnificent house" has been designated as a place of prayer, since the first synagogue (dedicated by R. Reuven Lehrer, founder of the moshava) had grown small for the increasing number of congregants, and the need arose to establish another minyan. They ask of the Maharil Diskin to attempt to obtain for them a "suitable Torah scroll, so that we should be able to pray at any time with a minyan…". They also relate of the need to set up a new synagogue close to their homes, for fear of the Bedouins "who set up their tents not far from us, and we cannot abandon our homes for the High Holidays…", and due to the fact that "during the rainy season, there are months when we will not be able to pray with a minyan".
• Another letter is enclosed, with the signatures of eleven of the first settlers and founders of the community, confirming reception of the Torah scroll, on loan from the Churva synagogue in the courtyard of R. Yehuda HaChassid, and pledging to return it whenever they would be asked to.
These historic documents, from the early years of the moshava Wadi Chanin (later named: Ness Ziona), document the dedication of a public house as synagogue in 1893 - a fact which is not known from other sources ("Mabat el HeAvar" - in the official website of the Ness Ziona municipality, states that only in 1907 was the cornerstone laid for the first public house, which served at one and the same time as a school, synagogue, meeting place, community center and Haganah house. Today this house serves as the Founder's house museum).
The renowned kabbalist, R. Naftali Hertz HaLevi (Weidenbaum) Rabbi of Jaffa (1852-1902), foremost kabbalist in Lithuania and Jerusalem. He was a disciple of the Maharil Diskin. He immigrated to Jerusalem from Białystok in 1884, and was a leading disseminator of Torah in the city. He delivered halachic lectures in the Degel Torah yeshiva which he founded in Jerusalem, as well as profound lectures on Kabbalah (which were attended by even the elder Lithuanian kabbalists in Jerusalem). In 1886, he was appointed by R. Shmuel Salant as rabbi of Jaffa and the moshavot of Eretz Israel, and was the first rabbi of the Ashkenazi community of Jaffa, by appointment of the rabbis of Jerusalem, to oversee the religious matters of the new settlements in Eretz Israel.
[2] leaves. 25.5-29 cm. Good-fair condition. Thin, dry paper, with tears. Adhesive tape to verso.
• Letter addressed to the Maharil Diskin in Jerusalem, signed by the settlers Mordechai Hochberg and Shlomo Yoffe. Their letter is followed by another letter (2 lines) handwritten and signed by R. Naftali Hertz HaLevi Rabbi of Jaffa and the moshavot, confirming that "there is in the Wadi Chanin colony (=moshava), approximately a minyan (prayer quorum) of men who are requesting as mentioned above… Monday, 23rd Elul 1893, so says Naftali Hertz HaLevi, residing here Jaffa".
The settlers relate in their letter that a "large and magnificent house" has been designated as a place of prayer, since the first synagogue (dedicated by R. Reuven Lehrer, founder of the moshava) had grown small for the increasing number of congregants, and the need arose to establish another minyan. They ask of the Maharil Diskin to attempt to obtain for them a "suitable Torah scroll, so that we should be able to pray at any time with a minyan…". They also relate of the need to set up a new synagogue close to their homes, for fear of the Bedouins "who set up their tents not far from us, and we cannot abandon our homes for the High Holidays…", and due to the fact that "during the rainy season, there are months when we will not be able to pray with a minyan".
• Another letter is enclosed, with the signatures of eleven of the first settlers and founders of the community, confirming reception of the Torah scroll, on loan from the Churva synagogue in the courtyard of R. Yehuda HaChassid, and pledging to return it whenever they would be asked to.
These historic documents, from the early years of the moshava Wadi Chanin (later named: Ness Ziona), document the dedication of a public house as synagogue in 1893 - a fact which is not known from other sources ("Mabat el HeAvar" - in the official website of the Ness Ziona municipality, states that only in 1907 was the cornerstone laid for the first public house, which served at one and the same time as a school, synagogue, meeting place, community center and Haganah house. Today this house serves as the Founder's house museum).
The renowned kabbalist, R. Naftali Hertz HaLevi (Weidenbaum) Rabbi of Jaffa (1852-1902), foremost kabbalist in Lithuania and Jerusalem. He was a disciple of the Maharil Diskin. He immigrated to Jerusalem from Białystok in 1884, and was a leading disseminator of Torah in the city. He delivered halachic lectures in the Degel Torah yeshiva which he founded in Jerusalem, as well as profound lectures on Kabbalah (which were attended by even the elder Lithuanian kabbalists in Jerusalem). In 1886, he was appointed by R. Shmuel Salant as rabbi of Jaffa and the moshavot of Eretz Israel, and was the first rabbi of the Ashkenazi community of Jaffa, by appointment of the rabbis of Jerusalem, to oversee the religious matters of the new settlements in Eretz Israel.
[2] leaves. 25.5-29 cm. Good-fair condition. Thin, dry paper, with tears. Adhesive tape to verso.
Category
Jerusalem and Eretz Israel - Letters, Manuscripts and Documents
Catalogue