Rambam’s Mishneh Torah, sections one, three and four [three volumes of four-volume set]. Amsterdam, [1702-1703]. Emanuel Atiash Printing Press. Most extensively proofread edition of books by the Rambam, prototype edition for majority of following editions.
Two title pages for first section; first illustrated. First and third sections contain illustration plates demonstrating laws of blessing on new moon, Shabbat, Sukkah and crossbreeding.
The three volumes contain many dozens of glosses [some faded] in Italian handwriting. The writer mentions his Chiddushim [“study my Chiddushim”, “In my Chiddushim I have written at great length”]. On margins of first title page, handwritten notation: “Chaim Volterra”, this possibly refers to Rabbi Chaim Volterra, among prominent rabbis of Italy who served in the rabbinate of Ancona, Senigallia, Finale and Venice during the mid 18th century [for additional information about him see “Sinai” 25, pp. 77-78 and approbation to book “Nahar Shalom” by Rabbi Shabtai Ventura]. It is possible that he is the writer of these glosses. [At end of section four, Italian notations of Volterra family members].
Section 1 (Mada-Zemanim): [9] leaves, [2] illustration plates; 327, [4] leaves. Section 3: (Hafla’ah-Taharah): [2] leaves, [1] illustration plate; 368, [9] leaves. Section 4: (Nezikin-Shoftim): [1], 309, [13] leaves. Generally in good condition, stains and wear. Two volumes contain antique [worn] leather bindings.