Title page of the book Metzadot BaChursha, unknown composition by Rabbi "Shmuel Chai ben Rabbi Doctor Yehuda HaLevi Moya". Venice, 1733.
Frame illustrated with copper etching, Rococo-style adornments from the 18th century encompassing the handwritten wording of the title page (Italian writing).
According to the inscription on the title page, the composition was divided into 377 branches corresponding to the numerology (Gematria) of the author's name Shmuel. Most of the book contains his own work, and parts are his uncle's writing - "Maharam my uncle". Supplemented to the book is a recounting of the history of the Venice community.
The author, Rabbi Shmuel Chai HaLevi Moya, served as the scribe of the Venice community from 1740-1784 and was one of its foremost scholars and community leaders. He signed approbations for many books written by Venice Torah scholars in his times [from 1737-1762. He signed also the approbation of Vaad HaKatan of Venice scholars for the printing of the first edition of Or HaChaim, printed by its author, Venice 1742].
Leaf 27.5 cm. High-quality paper, good-fair condition, ancient paper mounting around the frame of the title page. Wear and minor tears. Spotting.