Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
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Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
May 25, 2021
Opening: $8,000
Estimate: $10,000 - $15,000
Sold for: $37,500
Including buyer's premium
Parchment manuscript, Milchamot Hashem, by R. Yaakov (Tam) son of Reuven – disputation against Christianity. [Aegean Sea, ca. 16 century].
Byzantine script.
Polemic work against Christianity, written in the form of a disputation between a Jew and a Christian. The author of the book, R. Yaakov (Tam) son of Reuven, was a contemporary of the Rambam. Not many details are known about him. According to one source, he was born in 1150, and according to another, in 1136. He authored this work in 1170. In his preface he mentions that he fled from his hometown to Gascony (South France).
As R. Yaakov relates in his preface, the impetus for writing this work was a dispute he had with a learned Christian priest he befriended in Gascony. The purpose of the book, as he states in the preface, is to refute the claims of the Christians and the proofs they bring from the Bible.
Decorated title at the beginning of the manuscript: "This book Milchamot Hashem as a response to heretics…".
Ornamented catchwords at the end of several gatherings.
The composition begins with a double-acrostic poem spelling out the name of the author.
Addition at the foot of p. 32a: "In response to heretics…". The word "heretics" was deleted by another writer, who wrote: "to Christians who say that until Yeshu (Jesus) came…". Another addition at the foot of p. 34a.
Milchamot Hashem was published, based on several manuscripts, by Dr. Yehuda Rosenthal, Mosad HaRav Kook, Jerusalem, 1963. This manuscript was however not available to the editor, and it contains many textual variations compared to the printed edition.
Milchamot Hashem is an early work of Jewish-Christian disputation. Chapter 11 criticizes the New Testament. Rosenthal writes in his foreword (p. XV): "The 11th chapter of Milchamot Hashem by Yaakov son of Reuven presumably contains the first systematic criticism of the New Testament written by a Jew in Christian Europe".
[78] leaves. Lacking approx. 8 leaves throughout manuscript and several leaves at end. 21 cm. Overall good condition. Stains and creases. Several leaves originally smaller or with natural holes (text was inscribed accordingly). Pieces cut out of several leaves (for reuse of the parchment), slightly affecting text. New leather binding.
Byzantine script.
Polemic work against Christianity, written in the form of a disputation between a Jew and a Christian. The author of the book, R. Yaakov (Tam) son of Reuven, was a contemporary of the Rambam. Not many details are known about him. According to one source, he was born in 1150, and according to another, in 1136. He authored this work in 1170. In his preface he mentions that he fled from his hometown to Gascony (South France).
As R. Yaakov relates in his preface, the impetus for writing this work was a dispute he had with a learned Christian priest he befriended in Gascony. The purpose of the book, as he states in the preface, is to refute the claims of the Christians and the proofs they bring from the Bible.
Decorated title at the beginning of the manuscript: "This book Milchamot Hashem as a response to heretics…".
Ornamented catchwords at the end of several gatherings.
The composition begins with a double-acrostic poem spelling out the name of the author.
Addition at the foot of p. 32a: "In response to heretics…". The word "heretics" was deleted by another writer, who wrote: "to Christians who say that until Yeshu (Jesus) came…". Another addition at the foot of p. 34a.
Milchamot Hashem was published, based on several manuscripts, by Dr. Yehuda Rosenthal, Mosad HaRav Kook, Jerusalem, 1963. This manuscript was however not available to the editor, and it contains many textual variations compared to the printed edition.
Milchamot Hashem is an early work of Jewish-Christian disputation. Chapter 11 criticizes the New Testament. Rosenthal writes in his foreword (p. XV): "The 11th chapter of Milchamot Hashem by Yaakov son of Reuven presumably contains the first systematic criticism of the New Testament written by a Jew in Christian Europe".
[78] leaves. Lacking approx. 8 leaves throughout manuscript and several leaves at end. 21 cm. Overall good condition. Stains and creases. Several leaves originally smaller or with natural holes (text was inscribed accordingly). Pieces cut out of several leaves (for reuse of the parchment), slightly affecting text. New leather binding.
Category
Early and Illustrated Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
May 25, 2021
Opening: $2,000
Estimate: $5,000 - $8,000
Sold for: $6,875
Including buyer's premium
Two manuscripts bound together – formulary of legal documents, novellae, poems, homiletics and short Torah thoughts. Italy, 1560s.
The first manuscript comprises texts of legal documents, novellae, poems and various selections. The second manuscript is a composition named Leket Pe'ah, containing selected homiletics and short Torah thoughts on verses and teachings of the sages. Both manuscripts were presumably scribed by R. Yedidia (Amadio) son of R. Moshe of Recanati (see below). An inscription by R. Yedidia appears inside the front board, within an ornamental circular frame: "…on Sunday, 19th Adar II, 10th March, 1566, I travelled from my home in San Marino (Italy) towards Rome, and I reached Rome on Thursday, 14th March 1566…". Inside the back board, there is another inscription by R. Yedidia: "Mine, Yedidia son of R. Moshe of Recanati, a resident of Marino". There is a third inscription at the end of his poem in honor of his wife (see below), dated 1569.
The first manuscript contains many texts of legal documents, with wording distinctive of Italian Jewry: betrothal contracts, ketubot, divorce, wills, monetary legal documents (debts, rent, authorization, guardianship, and more). Many glosses and additions in the margins, including alternative texts, laws and notes pertaining to documents, and other selections.
On p. [2a], text of a betrothal contract, including the name of the place: Rimini and the year: 1565. Some documents contain a sentence relating to Italy, such as: "I wish this will to be valid everywhere, Venice, Lombardy, Bologna, Romagna and Marche, France, Spain and in all states of Italy".
On p. [8b], text of a will "instituted by R. Toviah", opening with a poetic introduction. This is followed by "A different introduction by R. Baruch Chazak".
P. [14a] contains a poem composed by the writer in honor of his wife, concluding: "composed by Yedidia son of R. Moshe of Recanati, in honor of Yentela his wife… 5th September 1569".
On p. [14b]: poem composed by the author in honor of R. Avraham Ibn Ezra, with an acrostic of his name: "Amadio son of Moshe".
Lists and diagrams of forbidden and permitted marriages, and of family ties which are valid or disqualified for testimony, on pp. [17b]-[18a].
On p. [19b] – a story about a tailor and Don Alfonso King of Spain.
The second manuscript is a compilation of homiletics and short Torah thoughts (allusions, acronyms and numerical values). The first page states: "Sefer Leket Pe'ah". This is presumably a transcript of an unknown composition authored by a R. Eliezer. The author is mentioned several times in the manuscript.
Ownership inscription at the foot of the first leaf: "The brothers, sons of the Yosef Yisrael Ravà".
The writer, R. Yedidia (Amadio) son of R. Moshe of Recanati was a Torah scholar and scribe active in Rimini, San Marino, Rome, and other places in Italy. There are several extant compositions he authored and manuscripts he copied. He translated Moreh Nevuchim to Italian, and dedicated it to the Rama of Fano.
[34] leaves (including two blank leaves). 21-22 cm. Fair-good condition. Stains. Wear and tears. Tears affecting text to several leaves. Original leather binding, damaged and detached.
The first manuscript comprises texts of legal documents, novellae, poems and various selections. The second manuscript is a composition named Leket Pe'ah, containing selected homiletics and short Torah thoughts on verses and teachings of the sages. Both manuscripts were presumably scribed by R. Yedidia (Amadio) son of R. Moshe of Recanati (see below). An inscription by R. Yedidia appears inside the front board, within an ornamental circular frame: "…on Sunday, 19th Adar II, 10th March, 1566, I travelled from my home in San Marino (Italy) towards Rome, and I reached Rome on Thursday, 14th March 1566…". Inside the back board, there is another inscription by R. Yedidia: "Mine, Yedidia son of R. Moshe of Recanati, a resident of Marino". There is a third inscription at the end of his poem in honor of his wife (see below), dated 1569.
The first manuscript contains many texts of legal documents, with wording distinctive of Italian Jewry: betrothal contracts, ketubot, divorce, wills, monetary legal documents (debts, rent, authorization, guardianship, and more). Many glosses and additions in the margins, including alternative texts, laws and notes pertaining to documents, and other selections.
On p. [2a], text of a betrothal contract, including the name of the place: Rimini and the year: 1565. Some documents contain a sentence relating to Italy, such as: "I wish this will to be valid everywhere, Venice, Lombardy, Bologna, Romagna and Marche, France, Spain and in all states of Italy".
On p. [8b], text of a will "instituted by R. Toviah", opening with a poetic introduction. This is followed by "A different introduction by R. Baruch Chazak".
P. [14a] contains a poem composed by the writer in honor of his wife, concluding: "composed by Yedidia son of R. Moshe of Recanati, in honor of Yentela his wife… 5th September 1569".
On p. [14b]: poem composed by the author in honor of R. Avraham Ibn Ezra, with an acrostic of his name: "Amadio son of Moshe".
Lists and diagrams of forbidden and permitted marriages, and of family ties which are valid or disqualified for testimony, on pp. [17b]-[18a].
On p. [19b] – a story about a tailor and Don Alfonso King of Spain.
The second manuscript is a compilation of homiletics and short Torah thoughts (allusions, acronyms and numerical values). The first page states: "Sefer Leket Pe'ah". This is presumably a transcript of an unknown composition authored by a R. Eliezer. The author is mentioned several times in the manuscript.
Ownership inscription at the foot of the first leaf: "The brothers, sons of the Yosef Yisrael Ravà".
The writer, R. Yedidia (Amadio) son of R. Moshe of Recanati was a Torah scholar and scribe active in Rimini, San Marino, Rome, and other places in Italy. There are several extant compositions he authored and manuscripts he copied. He translated Moreh Nevuchim to Italian, and dedicated it to the Rama of Fano.
[34] leaves (including two blank leaves). 21-22 cm. Fair-good condition. Stains. Wear and tears. Tears affecting text to several leaves. Original leather binding, damaged and detached.
Category
Early and Illustrated Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
May 25, 2021
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $4,000
Including buyer's premium
Manuscript, comprising two compositions – commentary on the Book of Iyov, by an unidentified author, and copying of Mahalach Shevilei HaDaat by R. Moshe Kimchi, with a commentary by R. Eliyahu Bachur. [Western Europe, ca. early 17th century].
Early Ashkenazic semi-cursive and cursive script. The first part of the manuscript (leaves 1-32) contains a copying of Mahalach Shevilei HaDaat by R. Moshe Kimchi, on grammar, with a commentary by R. Eliyahu Bachur (the book was first printed in Pesaro 1508, but this appears to be a copying of the Mantua 1563 edition). At the end of the transcript, near the concluding words of the composition, the scribe added his name and the date of writing: " I, his son Yaakov Rothenburg, handwrote this Mahalach, and I completed it today, 26th Av 1615".
The second part of the manuscript (leaves 34-87) contains a lengthy commentary on the Book of Iyov (ending with chapter 20, verse 19), by an unidentified author. It was presumably written around the same time as the first part of the manuscript. The commentary is written alongside the verses of Iyov. The verses were written in "windows", with the commentary written around it (blank "windows" remain on the final leaves, uncompleted by the scribe). The author mentions earlier Torah scholars and commentaries in his work. The latest sources quoted are Ohev Mishpat (Venice, 1590) and Chelkat Mechokek by R. Moshe Alshech (Venice, 1603). On p. 61b, the author mentions the Zohar.
A few words are translated into Yiddish. As far as our research has shown, this work was never published.
Between these two parts, on leaf 33, a transcript (lacking ending) from the book Levush HaOrah by R. Mordechai Yoffe author of the Levushim (Shemot 15, 5), regarding the correct pronunciation of the melopum and shuruk vowel signs.
Owner's signature on p. 86b: "So says Mordechai son of R. Gumprecht".
[1], 87 leaves (foliated in pencil). 15 cm. Good condition. Stains, including dark stains. Marginal wear and minor tears to several leaves. Several leaves trimmed with damage to text. New binding.
Provenance: Christie's, auction 9192, Important Hebrew Manuscripts and Printed Books, June 1999, lot 60.
Early Ashkenazic semi-cursive and cursive script. The first part of the manuscript (leaves 1-32) contains a copying of Mahalach Shevilei HaDaat by R. Moshe Kimchi, on grammar, with a commentary by R. Eliyahu Bachur (the book was first printed in Pesaro 1508, but this appears to be a copying of the Mantua 1563 edition). At the end of the transcript, near the concluding words of the composition, the scribe added his name and the date of writing: " I, his son Yaakov Rothenburg, handwrote this Mahalach, and I completed it today, 26th Av 1615".
The second part of the manuscript (leaves 34-87) contains a lengthy commentary on the Book of Iyov (ending with chapter 20, verse 19), by an unidentified author. It was presumably written around the same time as the first part of the manuscript. The commentary is written alongside the verses of Iyov. The verses were written in "windows", with the commentary written around it (blank "windows" remain on the final leaves, uncompleted by the scribe). The author mentions earlier Torah scholars and commentaries in his work. The latest sources quoted are Ohev Mishpat (Venice, 1590) and Chelkat Mechokek by R. Moshe Alshech (Venice, 1603). On p. 61b, the author mentions the Zohar.
A few words are translated into Yiddish. As far as our research has shown, this work was never published.
Between these two parts, on leaf 33, a transcript (lacking ending) from the book Levush HaOrah by R. Mordechai Yoffe author of the Levushim (Shemot 15, 5), regarding the correct pronunciation of the melopum and shuruk vowel signs.
Owner's signature on p. 86b: "So says Mordechai son of R. Gumprecht".
[1], 87 leaves (foliated in pencil). 15 cm. Good condition. Stains, including dark stains. Marginal wear and minor tears to several leaves. Several leaves trimmed with damage to text. New binding.
Provenance: Christie's, auction 9192, Important Hebrew Manuscripts and Printed Books, June 1999, lot 60.
Category
Early and Illustrated Manuscripts
Catalogue
![Decorated parchment manuscript, Sephardi-rite selichot, produced by Mazal Tov (Fortunata) Fiano. [Italy], 1793.
Pocket size](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale78-public/23_1.jpg "Decorated Parchment Manuscript, Sephardi-Rite Selichot – Produced by F")
![Decorated parchment manuscript, Sephardi-rite selichot, produced by Mazal Tov (Fortunata) Fiano. [Italy], 1793.
Pocket size](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale78-public/23_2.jpg "Decorated Parchment Manuscript, Sephardi-Rite Selichot – Produced by F")
![Decorated parchment manuscript, Sephardi-rite selichot, produced by Mazal Tov (Fortunata) Fiano. [Italy], 1793.
Pocket size](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale78-public/23_3.jpg "Decorated Parchment Manuscript, Sephardi-Rite Selichot – Produced by F")
Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
May 25, 2021
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $2,000 - $4,000
Sold for: $6,250
Including buyer's premium
Decorated parchment manuscript, Sephardi-rite selichot, produced by Mazal Tov (Fortunata) Fiano. [Italy], 1793.
Pocket size. Black and gold ink on thin parchment leaves. Title page within architectural border with geometric and floral motifs. Text on each page set within gold frame.
The title page indicates that this selichot was produced by Mazal Tov daughter of R. Yehuda Fiano, in 1793.
This manuscript was produced by Fiano for her private use. The selichot follow Sephardi-rite, and some of the piyyutim are still recited today in the Florence rite.
Original leather binding with fine gilt decorations. The front and back boards bear the Fiano family emblem (see enclosed material) within a medallion, with the initials of the scribe and owner of the manuscript: F.F. (= Fortunata Fiano).
The Fiano family is a prominent Jewish family originating from Rome (named after the town Fiano Romano, which the Jews were expelled from in 1569). The members of the Fiano family resided in Rome and Ancona, and from the 18th century, also in Florence.
[17] leaves (and three blank parchment leaves). Approx. 12 cm. Good condition. Stains (several dark stains). Ink fading in several places. Fabric bookmark. Original leather binding.
For more information about female scribes and copyists, see: A.M. Haberman, Nashim Maatikot, Kiryat Sefer XIII (Nissan 1936), pp. 114-120. Haberman compiled a list of manuscripts scribed by women; however, the present manuscript is not listed there.
Pocket size. Black and gold ink on thin parchment leaves. Title page within architectural border with geometric and floral motifs. Text on each page set within gold frame.
The title page indicates that this selichot was produced by Mazal Tov daughter of R. Yehuda Fiano, in 1793.
This manuscript was produced by Fiano for her private use. The selichot follow Sephardi-rite, and some of the piyyutim are still recited today in the Florence rite.
Original leather binding with fine gilt decorations. The front and back boards bear the Fiano family emblem (see enclosed material) within a medallion, with the initials of the scribe and owner of the manuscript: F.F. (= Fortunata Fiano).
The Fiano family is a prominent Jewish family originating from Rome (named after the town Fiano Romano, which the Jews were expelled from in 1569). The members of the Fiano family resided in Rome and Ancona, and from the 18th century, also in Florence.
[17] leaves (and three blank parchment leaves). Approx. 12 cm. Good condition. Stains (several dark stains). Ink fading in several places. Fabric bookmark. Original leather binding.
For more information about female scribes and copyists, see: A.M. Haberman, Nashim Maatikot, Kiryat Sefer XIII (Nissan 1936), pp. 114-120. Haberman compiled a list of manuscripts scribed by women; however, the present manuscript is not listed there.
Category
Early and Illustrated Manuscripts
Catalogue
![Manuscript, Psalms for festivals, with Italian translation. [Italy, 19th century].
The manuscript opens with an illustratio](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale78-public/24_1.jpg "Illustrated Manuscript – Psalms for Festivals – Italy, 19th Century")
![Manuscript, Psalms for festivals, with Italian translation. [Italy, 19th century].
The manuscript opens with an illustratio](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale78-public/24_2.jpg "Illustrated Manuscript – Psalms for Festivals – Italy, 19th Century")
Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
May 25, 2021
Opening: $1,500
Estimate: $2,000 - $4,000
Unsold
Manuscript, Psalms for festivals, with Italian translation. [Italy, 19th century].
The manuscript opens with an illustration of an architectonic gate, surmounted by the Tablets of the Law. At the end of the manuscript, an illustration of birds drinking from a water fountain.
Includes Psalms for Rosh Hashanah, Sukkot, Chanukah and Purim. With interlinear Italian translation (in Latin characters).
Ink on paper. [7] leaves. Approx. 15 cm. Stains, including dark stains. Minor worming. Marginal tear to one leaf. Card binding, detached, with minor damage.
Provenance:
1. The Gross Family Collection, Tel Aviv, Ms. 51.
2. Private collection.
The manuscript opens with an illustration of an architectonic gate, surmounted by the Tablets of the Law. At the end of the manuscript, an illustration of birds drinking from a water fountain.
Includes Psalms for Rosh Hashanah, Sukkot, Chanukah and Purim. With interlinear Italian translation (in Latin characters).
Ink on paper. [7] leaves. Approx. 15 cm. Stains, including dark stains. Minor worming. Marginal tear to one leaf. Card binding, detached, with minor damage.
Provenance:
1. The Gross Family Collection, Tel Aviv, Ms. 51.
2. Private collection.
Category
Early and Illustrated Manuscripts
Catalogue
![Illustrated manuscript, songs for a Brit Milah (circumcision). [Italy?, 19th century].
Title page illustrated in color, fea](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale78-public/25_1.jpg "Illustrated Manuscript – Songs for a Brit Milah – Italy, 19th Century")
![Illustrated manuscript, songs for a Brit Milah (circumcision). [Italy?, 19th century].
Title page illustrated in color, fea](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale78-public/25_2.jpg "Illustrated Manuscript – Songs for a Brit Milah – Italy, 19th Century")
Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
May 25, 2021
Opening: $2,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Unsold
Illustrated manuscript, songs for a Brit Milah (circumcision). [Italy?, 19th century].
Title page illustrated in color, featuring in its lower part an illustration of a landscape with a fortified city in the center, with the inscription: "May the All-Merciful One send us Eliyahu HaNavi…". On the verso of the title page, illustration of a circumcision tool, with the inscription: "Baruch HaBa". The pages of the manuscript are decorated with leaves and flowers.
Comprises various songs for a Brit Milah, including several which are not listed in Davidson's Thesaurus of Mediaeval Hebrew Poetry.
Ink on paper. [10] leaves. 13 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains (including dark dampstains). Worming, affecting text. Old card binding, with damage.
Provenance:
1. The Gross Family Collection, Tel Aviv, Ms. 361.
2. Private collection.
Title page illustrated in color, featuring in its lower part an illustration of a landscape with a fortified city in the center, with the inscription: "May the All-Merciful One send us Eliyahu HaNavi…". On the verso of the title page, illustration of a circumcision tool, with the inscription: "Baruch HaBa". The pages of the manuscript are decorated with leaves and flowers.
Comprises various songs for a Brit Milah, including several which are not listed in Davidson's Thesaurus of Mediaeval Hebrew Poetry.
Ink on paper. [10] leaves. 13 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains (including dark dampstains). Worming, affecting text. Old card binding, with damage.
Provenance:
1. The Gross Family Collection, Tel Aviv, Ms. 361.
2. Private collection.
Category
Early and Illustrated Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
May 25, 2021
Opening: $3,000
Estimate: $4,000 - $5,000
Unsold
Manuscript, "Book for a Kohen who leaves his place to bless the congregation for Birkat Kohanim, Ashkenazi rite". With Kiddush Levana (sanctification of the moon). Amsterdam, [18th/19th century].
Title within ornamental archway decorated with priestly hands, a lion and fish. Particularly fine calligraphic script. Each page is set within a red ruled border.
The manuscript comprises sections of the siddur and piyyutim recited by the congregation and the Kohanim during the cantor's repetition of the Amidah prayers on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. For the use of the Kohen just before and after Birkat Kohanim (when he is unable to hold a machzor). The manuscript begins with HaYom Harat Olam (at the end of the blessing of Shofarot), and includes Areshet Sefatenu, VeTe'arev Lefanecha, Modim DeRabbanan, Yehi Ratzon before Birkat Kohanim, the text of Birkat Kohanim, Ribbono Shel Olam, HaYom TeAmetzenu (the prayer "Avinu Malkenu Kaleh Dever VeCherev…" is not included in this manuscript, in accordance with the custom of most Western-Ashkenazi congregations to not recite this passage).
Kiddush Levana was included at the end of the volume, with a separate title page: "Order of Kiddush Levana – on Yom Kippur eve, as one leaves the synagogue, one customarily sanctifies the moon".
Ink on paper. 5; 4 leaves. 17.5 cm. Very good condition. Stains and minor tears. Fine binding, with damage.
Title within ornamental archway decorated with priestly hands, a lion and fish. Particularly fine calligraphic script. Each page is set within a red ruled border.
The manuscript comprises sections of the siddur and piyyutim recited by the congregation and the Kohanim during the cantor's repetition of the Amidah prayers on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. For the use of the Kohen just before and after Birkat Kohanim (when he is unable to hold a machzor). The manuscript begins with HaYom Harat Olam (at the end of the blessing of Shofarot), and includes Areshet Sefatenu, VeTe'arev Lefanecha, Modim DeRabbanan, Yehi Ratzon before Birkat Kohanim, the text of Birkat Kohanim, Ribbono Shel Olam, HaYom TeAmetzenu (the prayer "Avinu Malkenu Kaleh Dever VeCherev…" is not included in this manuscript, in accordance with the custom of most Western-Ashkenazi congregations to not recite this passage).
Kiddush Levana was included at the end of the volume, with a separate title page: "Order of Kiddush Levana – on Yom Kippur eve, as one leaves the synagogue, one customarily sanctifies the moon".
Ink on paper. 5; 4 leaves. 17.5 cm. Very good condition. Stains and minor tears. Fine binding, with damage.
Category
Early and Illustrated Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
May 25, 2021
Opening: $1,500
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $5,500
Including buyer's premium
The Rothschild Miscellany. An elaborate facsimile produced by The Israel Museum and Facsimile Editions, Jerusalem-London, 1989.
The Rothschild Miscellany, commissioned by Moshe ben Yekutiel HaKohen in 1479, is considered the most lavish of all Hebrew manuscripts. The Miscellany comprises more than 37 religious and secular works, including: Psalms, Proverbs, Iyov, a yearly prayer book with the Passover Haggadah, and philosophical, moralistic and scientific treatises. With vignettes illustrating the text, and ornate gold-leaf initial-word panels.
Copy no. 91, of a limited edition of 500 copies (altogether 550 copies were printed, including 50 AP – Ad Personam copies, which are identical to the regular copies).
Elaborate facsimile, with leather binding, with accompanying commentary volume (in English), each slipcased. Facsimile: [473] leaves. Commentary volume: 256 pages. Volumes: 21 cm. Slipcases: 24 cm. Good condition. Minor damage to bindings and cases.
The Rothschild Miscellany, commissioned by Moshe ben Yekutiel HaKohen in 1479, is considered the most lavish of all Hebrew manuscripts. The Miscellany comprises more than 37 religious and secular works, including: Psalms, Proverbs, Iyov, a yearly prayer book with the Passover Haggadah, and philosophical, moralistic and scientific treatises. With vignettes illustrating the text, and ornate gold-leaf initial-word panels.
Copy no. 91, of a limited edition of 500 copies (altogether 550 copies were printed, including 50 AP – Ad Personam copies, which are identical to the regular copies).
Elaborate facsimile, with leather binding, with accompanying commentary volume (in English), each slipcased. Facsimile: [473] leaves. Commentary volume: 256 pages. Volumes: 21 cm. Slipcases: 24 cm. Good condition. Minor damage to bindings and cases.
Category
Early and Illustrated Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
May 25, 2021
Opening: $25,000
Estimate: $30,000 - $40,000
Sold for: $32,500
Including buyer's premium
Manuscript, Ir David, compilation of teachings of the sages on Halachah and Aggadah, with novellae and explanations, by R. David Oppenheim. [Prague, ca. 1700s-1710s].
Manuscript of a monumental work authored by R. David Oppenheim, comprising a compilation of midrashim and teachings of the sages arranged according to topics, with the addition of novellae and commentaries. R. David did not succeed in bringing this work to print, and to date, it has not been published (see: Ch. Michel, Or HaChaim, Frankfurt, 1891, p. 315). Various parts of this work can be found in libraries around the world.
The work is named "Ir" (= city) and its entries are called "Batim" (= houses, the work is also called Sefer HaBatim – Book of Houses). A number of manuscripts produced by copyists exist, where the "Batim" are arranged in alphabetical order, and each of the "Batim" is divided into sub-sections named "Chadarim" (= rooms). The present manuscript is from the initial stage of writing, and the entries are not written in any special order. Large sections of this manuscript are handwritten by the author, and some sections were written by a copyist, at times with amendments and additions in the author's handwriting. Above each section, the author wrote the type of "Bayit" to which the section belongs.
In two places, the author refers to his other books. On p. [15a]: "See my book Yad David at length". On p. [33b], he mentions "my book Yalkut David, leaf 79".
Various novellae and short notes appear on the last leaves, later deleted (they were presumably copied elsewhere).
R. David Oppenheim (1664-1736) was a prominent leader in his times. Outstanding Torah scholar, rabbi and yeshiva dean, kabbalist and posek, wealthy and influential in the Emperor's court. He was a disciple of R. Gershon Ashkenazi, author of Avodat HaGershuni; of R. Yaakov Katz, father of the Chacham Zvi; and of R. Binyamin Epstein, author of Nachalat Binyamin. He had a close relationship with R. Yair Chaim Bacharach, author of Chavot Yair, and exchanged halachic correspondence with him. In 1690, while still in his twenties, he was appointed rabbi of Nikolsburg (Mikulov) and Moravia. Twenty years later, he was appointed rabbi of Prague, eventually serving as chief rabbi of Bohemia. He held this position for over 25 years until his death. He authored some twenty halachic and aggadic books, including Responsa Nish'al David. Only a few of his compositions were published. Exceptionally wealthy (he inherited his wealth from his father-in-law and from his uncle, R. Shmuel Oppenheim), he held close ties with the Emperor's court and with all the top governing officials. While his books remained in manuscripts, he was very supportive of Torah scholars and assisted them in printing their books. R. David dearly loved books and privately compiled the most important Jewish library in his times, containing thousands of volumes of rare books and manuscripts spanning many eras. After his death, his library was offered for sale and was purchased by the Oxford University Bodleian Library in England.
[80] written leaves (and many more blank leaves). 19 cm. Good condition. Some stains. Minor wear. New leather binding.
Manuscript of a monumental work authored by R. David Oppenheim, comprising a compilation of midrashim and teachings of the sages arranged according to topics, with the addition of novellae and commentaries. R. David did not succeed in bringing this work to print, and to date, it has not been published (see: Ch. Michel, Or HaChaim, Frankfurt, 1891, p. 315). Various parts of this work can be found in libraries around the world.
The work is named "Ir" (= city) and its entries are called "Batim" (= houses, the work is also called Sefer HaBatim – Book of Houses). A number of manuscripts produced by copyists exist, where the "Batim" are arranged in alphabetical order, and each of the "Batim" is divided into sub-sections named "Chadarim" (= rooms). The present manuscript is from the initial stage of writing, and the entries are not written in any special order. Large sections of this manuscript are handwritten by the author, and some sections were written by a copyist, at times with amendments and additions in the author's handwriting. Above each section, the author wrote the type of "Bayit" to which the section belongs.
In two places, the author refers to his other books. On p. [15a]: "See my book Yad David at length". On p. [33b], he mentions "my book Yalkut David, leaf 79".
Various novellae and short notes appear on the last leaves, later deleted (they were presumably copied elsewhere).
R. David Oppenheim (1664-1736) was a prominent leader in his times. Outstanding Torah scholar, rabbi and yeshiva dean, kabbalist and posek, wealthy and influential in the Emperor's court. He was a disciple of R. Gershon Ashkenazi, author of Avodat HaGershuni; of R. Yaakov Katz, father of the Chacham Zvi; and of R. Binyamin Epstein, author of Nachalat Binyamin. He had a close relationship with R. Yair Chaim Bacharach, author of Chavot Yair, and exchanged halachic correspondence with him. In 1690, while still in his twenties, he was appointed rabbi of Nikolsburg (Mikulov) and Moravia. Twenty years later, he was appointed rabbi of Prague, eventually serving as chief rabbi of Bohemia. He held this position for over 25 years until his death. He authored some twenty halachic and aggadic books, including Responsa Nish'al David. Only a few of his compositions were published. Exceptionally wealthy (he inherited his wealth from his father-in-law and from his uncle, R. Shmuel Oppenheim), he held close ties with the Emperor's court and with all the top governing officials. While his books remained in manuscripts, he was very supportive of Torah scholars and assisted them in printing their books. R. David dearly loved books and privately compiled the most important Jewish library in his times, containing thousands of volumes of rare books and manuscripts spanning many eras. After his death, his library was offered for sale and was purchased by the Oxford University Bodleian Library in England.
[80] written leaves (and many more blank leaves). 19 cm. Good condition. Some stains. Minor wear. New leather binding.
Category
Manuscripts and Signatures – Rabbis and Rebbes
Catalogue
Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
May 25, 2021
Opening: $5,000
Estimate: $8,000 - $12,000
Sold for: $13,750
Including buyer's premium
Manuscript on parchment – Chazzan HaKnesset, prayers for the chazzan and gabbai during the Torah reading. [Pressburg, during the Chatam Sofer's tenure as rabbi, ca. 1811].
Manuscript on parchment. Vocalized, square script. Scribed and decorated in color, with gold ink. Initial words and headings in colored ink.
Includes: Yehi Ratzon prayers recited after the weekday Torah reading; Haftarah blessings (for Shabbat, the Three Festivals, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur); Haftarah for a public fast; Yekum Purkan and Mi Sheberach prayers; prayer for the Royal Family; blessing for the new month; Yizkor and Mi Sheberach prayers in memory of the deceased for festivals and the High Holidays; prayers for the Shofar blower and order of blowing, with kavanot; blessings for the Megillah reading with the Asher Heni and Shoshanat Yaakov piyyutim; order for changing a name.
The word "Yekum" (from Yekum Purkan) on p. 7 is flanked by two lions, set in a frame of leaves and flowers.
Prayer for the Royal Family on p. 9: "G-d who created Heaven and earth… should bless, protect and guard… our very distinguished master, the mighty and pious monarch, the Emperor [blank], and our mistress the queen… the Empress [blank]…". The first words of the prayer are set in a frame and decorated with a large crown, a pair of lions and a human face, rocailles and floral elements.
The present manuscript belonged to the Brill Shull in Pressburg, during the Chatam Sofer's tenure as rabbi of the city. The synagogue was named after its founder, the pious and wealthy R. Azriel Brill [Brilin].
A prayer was added in the margins of p. 13 at a later date (after the passing of R. Azriel and his wife): "May G-d remember the soul of Azriel son of Chana, and the soul of his wife Troyla daughter of Ruchama, for their donation of this synagogue. In that merit…". The present manuscript, with the special prayer in memory of R. Azriel and his wife, is mentioned in the book Avnei Beit HaYotzer about the Pressburg community, by R. Yitzchak Weiss, Pacs 1900, p. 73: "The prominent rabbi… R. Azriel Brilin… built… a magnificent synagogue… which is named after him… and in that merit his soul and the soul of his righteous wife are mentioned… during the Three Festivals and on Yom Kippur, and this is the text of the Yizkor recited for them… and this Yizkor is written in the parchment book of his synagogue…".
R. Azriel Bril (d. 1818), wealthy leader of the Pressburg community. He was one of the signatories on the rabbinic appointment of the Chatam Sofer. He was also a prominent Torah scholar, and in his youth he disseminated Torah and taught disciples. He fasted regularly throughout his life, and was constantly distressed about his exceptional prosperity. The Chatam Sofer eulogized him, saying: "The glory and crown of our community… diligent and sharp in Torah, in his youth he edified disciples… he served as our eyes in all matters… in all kinds of acts of kindness, he supported widows, orphans and the unfortunate… a great man… he never sought honor… neither for his Torah nor for his wealth…" (Drashot Chatam Sofer, II, eulogy from Parashat Chukat 1818).
A piece of parchment was attached to the manuscript (pasted inside the front board) at a later date, stating: "…the yahrzeit of the late R. Azriel Brilin is on 23rd Iyar… he donated and established this synagogue which is named after him… he also donated the Torah scroll and holy utensils for this synagogue, and the yahrzeit of Mrs. Troyla his wife…".
22 pages. 27.5 cm. Overall good condition. Stains. Ink smearing in several places (several words illegible). New leather binding.
Manuscript on parchment. Vocalized, square script. Scribed and decorated in color, with gold ink. Initial words and headings in colored ink.
Includes: Yehi Ratzon prayers recited after the weekday Torah reading; Haftarah blessings (for Shabbat, the Three Festivals, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur); Haftarah for a public fast; Yekum Purkan and Mi Sheberach prayers; prayer for the Royal Family; blessing for the new month; Yizkor and Mi Sheberach prayers in memory of the deceased for festivals and the High Holidays; prayers for the Shofar blower and order of blowing, with kavanot; blessings for the Megillah reading with the Asher Heni and Shoshanat Yaakov piyyutim; order for changing a name.
The word "Yekum" (from Yekum Purkan) on p. 7 is flanked by two lions, set in a frame of leaves and flowers.
Prayer for the Royal Family on p. 9: "G-d who created Heaven and earth… should bless, protect and guard… our very distinguished master, the mighty and pious monarch, the Emperor [blank], and our mistress the queen… the Empress [blank]…". The first words of the prayer are set in a frame and decorated with a large crown, a pair of lions and a human face, rocailles and floral elements.
The present manuscript belonged to the Brill Shull in Pressburg, during the Chatam Sofer's tenure as rabbi of the city. The synagogue was named after its founder, the pious and wealthy R. Azriel Brill [Brilin].
A prayer was added in the margins of p. 13 at a later date (after the passing of R. Azriel and his wife): "May G-d remember the soul of Azriel son of Chana, and the soul of his wife Troyla daughter of Ruchama, for their donation of this synagogue. In that merit…". The present manuscript, with the special prayer in memory of R. Azriel and his wife, is mentioned in the book Avnei Beit HaYotzer about the Pressburg community, by R. Yitzchak Weiss, Pacs 1900, p. 73: "The prominent rabbi… R. Azriel Brilin… built… a magnificent synagogue… which is named after him… and in that merit his soul and the soul of his righteous wife are mentioned… during the Three Festivals and on Yom Kippur, and this is the text of the Yizkor recited for them… and this Yizkor is written in the parchment book of his synagogue…".
R. Azriel Bril (d. 1818), wealthy leader of the Pressburg community. He was one of the signatories on the rabbinic appointment of the Chatam Sofer. He was also a prominent Torah scholar, and in his youth he disseminated Torah and taught disciples. He fasted regularly throughout his life, and was constantly distressed about his exceptional prosperity. The Chatam Sofer eulogized him, saying: "The glory and crown of our community… diligent and sharp in Torah, in his youth he edified disciples… he served as our eyes in all matters… in all kinds of acts of kindness, he supported widows, orphans and the unfortunate… a great man… he never sought honor… neither for his Torah nor for his wealth…" (Drashot Chatam Sofer, II, eulogy from Parashat Chukat 1818).
A piece of parchment was attached to the manuscript (pasted inside the front board) at a later date, stating: "…the yahrzeit of the late R. Azriel Brilin is on 23rd Iyar… he donated and established this synagogue which is named after him… he also donated the Torah scroll and holy utensils for this synagogue, and the yahrzeit of Mrs. Troyla his wife…".
22 pages. 27.5 cm. Overall good condition. Stains. Ink smearing in several places (several words illegible). New leather binding.
Category
Manuscripts and Signatures – Rabbis and Rebbes
Catalogue
Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
May 25, 2021
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $5,000 - $8,000
Sold for: $4,250
Including buyer's premium
Manuscript, Pinkas of the Bikur Cholim society in Kraków, containing much valuable information about the community members and its rabbis. Kraków, 1829-1934.
Large format. The Pinkas opens with a decorated title page, inscribed: " This Pinkas belongs to the Bikur Cholim holy society… according to the regulation instituted in 1823".
The Pinkas offers much information about the Kraków community from the 1830s up until close to the Holocaust. Hundreds of written pages, containing thousands of names, various facts and hundreds of signatures of the society's gabbaim over the years. It also includes information about R. Shimon Sofer, rabbi of Kraków (son of the Chatam Sofer) and other rabbis (see below).
The Pinkas comprises protocols, records of new members joining the society, records of donations made out to the society, pledges of Torah study in memory of the deceased and more. It also includes regulations and decisions of the society (generally signed by the gabbaim), dated: 1829, 1834, 1838, 1843, 1846, 1848, 1864, 1875; results of elections for various positions in the society and protocols of appointments of gabbaim and other functionaries, 1829-1866; records about the society's property, and more. Additional leaves with inscriptions and signatures were pasted in several places. The society's stamp appears on several leaves.
In several places, the Pinkas offers information about the rabbi of the city – R. Shimon Sofer (son of the Chatam Sofer. Served as rabbi of Mattersdorf, was appointed rabbi of Kraków in 1861. A leader of Orthodox Jewry in Galicia, held a seat in the Austrian parliament. Author of Michtav Sofer).
An inscription regarding the acceptance of R. Shimon Sofer as member of the society is recorded on p. 142b. On p. 186a, there is a record of a donation from R. Shimon Sofer in memory of his daughter Sarah Chaya. An inscription on p. 25b attests that a Torah scroll was lent to R. Shimon Sofer on the 1st day of Rosh Chodesh Nissan 1861 (the year of his appointment as rabbi of the city). A leaf was pasted on p. 239a, containing a contract with the society, signed by R. Tzvi Hirsch Berliner, son of R. Shlomo Hirschell Rabbi of London. At the foot of the leaf, there is an additional inscription, "Copy of a letter given to R. Efraim Berliner of Warsaw" (son of the above-mentioned R. Tzvi), describing "the efforts of R. Shimon Sofer Rabbi of our community…".
On p. 159b, there is an inscription handwritten and signed by R. Yosef Nechemia Kornitzer Rabbi of Kraków (grandson of R. Shimon Sofer), about his joining the society in 1925 (the year he succeeded his father as rabbi of the city).
Later leaves were bound at the beginning of the Pinkas, after the title page and another leaf. These are followed by the original leaves of the Pinkas. Some twenty leaves were removed from the Pinkas when it was rebound in 1862, as stated on the leaf following the title page: "The 21 leaves lacking in this Pinkas which contained the list of the members of the society in Ashuri script, where removed when the Pinkas was rebound in 1862, and the list was rewritten…". The lacking leaves were replaced with later leaves, containing an index of names. The inscriptions in the Pinkas do not always appear in chronological order, and some leaves were presumably bound out of sequence.
[22], 22-252 leaves (hundreds of written pages. Some blank leaves). 37 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Several tears. Tears to some of the later leaves at the beginning of the Pinkas, affecting text, with loss. New leather binding.
Large format. The Pinkas opens with a decorated title page, inscribed: " This Pinkas belongs to the Bikur Cholim holy society… according to the regulation instituted in 1823".
The Pinkas offers much information about the Kraków community from the 1830s up until close to the Holocaust. Hundreds of written pages, containing thousands of names, various facts and hundreds of signatures of the society's gabbaim over the years. It also includes information about R. Shimon Sofer, rabbi of Kraków (son of the Chatam Sofer) and other rabbis (see below).
The Pinkas comprises protocols, records of new members joining the society, records of donations made out to the society, pledges of Torah study in memory of the deceased and more. It also includes regulations and decisions of the society (generally signed by the gabbaim), dated: 1829, 1834, 1838, 1843, 1846, 1848, 1864, 1875; results of elections for various positions in the society and protocols of appointments of gabbaim and other functionaries, 1829-1866; records about the society's property, and more. Additional leaves with inscriptions and signatures were pasted in several places. The society's stamp appears on several leaves.
In several places, the Pinkas offers information about the rabbi of the city – R. Shimon Sofer (son of the Chatam Sofer. Served as rabbi of Mattersdorf, was appointed rabbi of Kraków in 1861. A leader of Orthodox Jewry in Galicia, held a seat in the Austrian parliament. Author of Michtav Sofer).
An inscription regarding the acceptance of R. Shimon Sofer as member of the society is recorded on p. 142b. On p. 186a, there is a record of a donation from R. Shimon Sofer in memory of his daughter Sarah Chaya. An inscription on p. 25b attests that a Torah scroll was lent to R. Shimon Sofer on the 1st day of Rosh Chodesh Nissan 1861 (the year of his appointment as rabbi of the city). A leaf was pasted on p. 239a, containing a contract with the society, signed by R. Tzvi Hirsch Berliner, son of R. Shlomo Hirschell Rabbi of London. At the foot of the leaf, there is an additional inscription, "Copy of a letter given to R. Efraim Berliner of Warsaw" (son of the above-mentioned R. Tzvi), describing "the efforts of R. Shimon Sofer Rabbi of our community…".
On p. 159b, there is an inscription handwritten and signed by R. Yosef Nechemia Kornitzer Rabbi of Kraków (grandson of R. Shimon Sofer), about his joining the society in 1925 (the year he succeeded his father as rabbi of the city).
Later leaves were bound at the beginning of the Pinkas, after the title page and another leaf. These are followed by the original leaves of the Pinkas. Some twenty leaves were removed from the Pinkas when it was rebound in 1862, as stated on the leaf following the title page: "The 21 leaves lacking in this Pinkas which contained the list of the members of the society in Ashuri script, where removed when the Pinkas was rebound in 1862, and the list was rewritten…". The lacking leaves were replaced with later leaves, containing an index of names. The inscriptions in the Pinkas do not always appear in chronological order, and some leaves were presumably bound out of sequence.
[22], 22-252 leaves (hundreds of written pages. Some blank leaves). 37 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Several tears. Tears to some of the later leaves at the beginning of the Pinkas, affecting text, with loss. New leather binding.
Category
Manuscripts and Signatures – Rabbis and Rebbes
Catalogue
Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
May 25, 2021
Opening: $16,000
Estimate: $20,000 - $25,000
Sold for: $30,000
Including buyer's premium
Three items related to R. Shimshon Refael Hirsch Rabbi of Frankfurt am Main and the Rothschild family:
1. Manuscript (11 pages), Worte gesprochen am Grabe [words said at the grave], handwritten by Rav Hirsch – eulogy for Baroness Adelheid von Rothschild, wife of Baron Carl Mayer von Rothschild. German, with a few words in Hebrew.
The eulogy was composed and written by R. Shimshon Refael Hirsch (presumably for publishing). Rav Hirsch describes the kindheartedness and generosity of the Baroness, her loyalty to the Jewish people and her being an exemplary wife and mother.
Baroness Adelheid von Rothschild née Herz was born in 1800 and passed away on 11th April 1853. Her husband was Baron Kalman son of Mayer (Carl Mayer) Rothschild, son of Mayer Amschel Rothschild (Meir son of Asher Anshel) Rothschild, founder of the Rothschild dynasty. Carl (Kalman) was sent to Naples, Italy, where he founded the local branch of the Rothschild bank.
Baroness Adelheid's son, Baron Wilhelm Rothschild, was one of the primary supporters of Rav Hirsch's Orthodox community in Frankfurt.
[6] leaves (11 pages handwritten by Rav Hirsch). 22 cm. Good condition. Some stains. Elegant red leather binding. A portrait print of Rav Hirsch is placed in a pocket on the front board.
2. Two leaves (written on one side) handwritten by R. Shimshon Refael Hirsch, epitaph of Anselm (Asher) Alexander Rothschild. [Frankfurt am Main, 1854].
On one leaf, Rav Hirsch wrote the epitaph – a short inscription and a lamentation poem, in Hebrew. The second leaf contains the German translation of the poem, also handwritten by Rav Hirsch. Rav Hirsch presumably composed the entire epitaph (both the inscription and the poem).
Anselm (Asher) Alexander was the youngest son of Baron Carl Mayer von Rothschild of Naples, Italy. He passed away in 1854 at the age of 18, a year after the passing of his mother Adelheid (see above), and was buried in the old cemetery in Frankfurt am Main.
[2] leaves (2 pages handwritten by Rav Hirsch). 33 cm. Good condition. Stains. Folding marks and creases. Small open tears, professionally repaired with paper. Elegant red leather binding.
3. Worte gesprochen am Grabe des verewigten Freiherrn Amschel Mayer von Rothschild [words said at the grave of the late Baron Amschel Mayer von Rothschild], 9. December 1855 – 29th Kislev 5616, by R. Shimshon Refael Hirsch. Frankfurt am Main, [ca. 1855]. Printed booklet. German.
Rare booklet. Unique edition, printed in gold ink on chromo paper. Thin paper guards between leaves.
Baron Amschel Mayer Rothschild was the eldest son of Baron Mayer Amschel (Mayer son of Asher Anshel) Rothschild, and brother of Carl Mayer von Rothschild (mentioned above). In 1810, he was appointed by his father, together with his four brothers, partner and manager of the Rothschild bank. After his father's passing, Amschel Mayer became the head of the family and manager of the main branch of the bank in Frankfurt am Main. He was ennobled in 1817 and became a Baron in 1822. Baron Rothschild was renowned for his charitability and generosity, and campaigned extensively to attain equal rights for German Jewry. He nevertheless remained loyal to Orthodox Judaism and opposed Reform. He passed away on December 6, 1855 and was buried on December 9 in the Jewish cemetery of Frankfurt.
In the present eulogy, Rav Hirsch praises the Baron for his exceptional generosity, his wisdom and perspicacity, and especially for his devotion to authentic Judaism, his diligence in praying in a synagogue and Shabbat observance.
[7] pages. 22 cm. Good condition. Stains. Tear to lower corner of title page, repaired with tape. The booklet was rebound (with the original wrappers) in a new binding.
1. Manuscript (11 pages), Worte gesprochen am Grabe [words said at the grave], handwritten by Rav Hirsch – eulogy for Baroness Adelheid von Rothschild, wife of Baron Carl Mayer von Rothschild. German, with a few words in Hebrew.
The eulogy was composed and written by R. Shimshon Refael Hirsch (presumably for publishing). Rav Hirsch describes the kindheartedness and generosity of the Baroness, her loyalty to the Jewish people and her being an exemplary wife and mother.
Baroness Adelheid von Rothschild née Herz was born in 1800 and passed away on 11th April 1853. Her husband was Baron Kalman son of Mayer (Carl Mayer) Rothschild, son of Mayer Amschel Rothschild (Meir son of Asher Anshel) Rothschild, founder of the Rothschild dynasty. Carl (Kalman) was sent to Naples, Italy, where he founded the local branch of the Rothschild bank.
Baroness Adelheid's son, Baron Wilhelm Rothschild, was one of the primary supporters of Rav Hirsch's Orthodox community in Frankfurt.
[6] leaves (11 pages handwritten by Rav Hirsch). 22 cm. Good condition. Some stains. Elegant red leather binding. A portrait print of Rav Hirsch is placed in a pocket on the front board.
2. Two leaves (written on one side) handwritten by R. Shimshon Refael Hirsch, epitaph of Anselm (Asher) Alexander Rothschild. [Frankfurt am Main, 1854].
On one leaf, Rav Hirsch wrote the epitaph – a short inscription and a lamentation poem, in Hebrew. The second leaf contains the German translation of the poem, also handwritten by Rav Hirsch. Rav Hirsch presumably composed the entire epitaph (both the inscription and the poem).
Anselm (Asher) Alexander was the youngest son of Baron Carl Mayer von Rothschild of Naples, Italy. He passed away in 1854 at the age of 18, a year after the passing of his mother Adelheid (see above), and was buried in the old cemetery in Frankfurt am Main.
[2] leaves (2 pages handwritten by Rav Hirsch). 33 cm. Good condition. Stains. Folding marks and creases. Small open tears, professionally repaired with paper. Elegant red leather binding.
3. Worte gesprochen am Grabe des verewigten Freiherrn Amschel Mayer von Rothschild [words said at the grave of the late Baron Amschel Mayer von Rothschild], 9. December 1855 – 29th Kislev 5616, by R. Shimshon Refael Hirsch. Frankfurt am Main, [ca. 1855]. Printed booklet. German.
Rare booklet. Unique edition, printed in gold ink on chromo paper. Thin paper guards between leaves.
Baron Amschel Mayer Rothschild was the eldest son of Baron Mayer Amschel (Mayer son of Asher Anshel) Rothschild, and brother of Carl Mayer von Rothschild (mentioned above). In 1810, he was appointed by his father, together with his four brothers, partner and manager of the Rothschild bank. After his father's passing, Amschel Mayer became the head of the family and manager of the main branch of the bank in Frankfurt am Main. He was ennobled in 1817 and became a Baron in 1822. Baron Rothschild was renowned for his charitability and generosity, and campaigned extensively to attain equal rights for German Jewry. He nevertheless remained loyal to Orthodox Judaism and opposed Reform. He passed away on December 6, 1855 and was buried on December 9 in the Jewish cemetery of Frankfurt.
In the present eulogy, Rav Hirsch praises the Baron for his exceptional generosity, his wisdom and perspicacity, and especially for his devotion to authentic Judaism, his diligence in praying in a synagogue and Shabbat observance.
[7] pages. 22 cm. Good condition. Stains. Tear to lower corner of title page, repaired with tape. The booklet was rebound (with the original wrappers) in a new binding.
Category
Manuscripts and Signatures – Rabbis and Rebbes
Catalogue