Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
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Displaying 25 - 36 of 231
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $400
Unsold
Tashbetz, all four parts, responsa and Chut HaMeshulash. Amsterdam, 1738. First edition, with four title pages – main title within engraved border depicting the figures of Moshe and Aharon, David and Shlomo.
Owner's stamps: "Avraham Azriel" (a Sephardic Torah scholar in Jerusalem). A few glosses in Sephardic script. Deleted Sephardic signatures on the first title page.
Reputedly, the author, R. Shimon son of Tzemach Duran, merited to have his books beautifully printed and bound in fine, elegant bindings in virtue of his practice to cover his open books with a magnificent kerchief (R. Yitzchak Palachi, Yafeh LaLev, III, Yoreh De'ah 277:3). Furthermore, it is told that he deeply respected his holy books and would clean them daily with a silk cloth (S.Y. Agnon, Sefer Sofer VeSipur, p. 152, related by R. Eliezerov in the name of the Tzemach Tzedek of Lubavitch; N. Ben Menachem, Gevilei Sefarim, pp. 11-12, related by R. Zevin in the name of the Rebbe Rashab of Lubavitch). Interestingly, all the copies of this book which are bound with original bindings were artistically handcrafted and beautifully decorated, with no two copies identical. Most original bindings were made of fine mottled parchment, or a combination of leather and parchment (which some librarians mistook as "fish skin").
[11], 91; 69, [1]; 68, [1]; [1], 36, [2], 39-83; [1], 85-101, [1] leaves. 31.5 cm. Overall good condition. Stains. Minor tears to several leaves. Worming to several leaves, affecting text. Original light-colored parchment binding, artistically decorated. Damage to binding. Open tears to spine (rebacked with parchment and part of original spine).
This edition has several variants that differ in the number of title pages. Some copies are known to have seven title pages (and even eight, see Kedem Auction 59, item 88), and some, like this copy, were printed with only four title pages (see Bibliography of the Hebrew Book, and see article by Dan and Gita Yardeni, Alei Sefer, X, pp. 119-132).
Owner's stamps: "Avraham Azriel" (a Sephardic Torah scholar in Jerusalem). A few glosses in Sephardic script. Deleted Sephardic signatures on the first title page.
Reputedly, the author, R. Shimon son of Tzemach Duran, merited to have his books beautifully printed and bound in fine, elegant bindings in virtue of his practice to cover his open books with a magnificent kerchief (R. Yitzchak Palachi, Yafeh LaLev, III, Yoreh De'ah 277:3). Furthermore, it is told that he deeply respected his holy books and would clean them daily with a silk cloth (S.Y. Agnon, Sefer Sofer VeSipur, p. 152, related by R. Eliezerov in the name of the Tzemach Tzedek of Lubavitch; N. Ben Menachem, Gevilei Sefarim, pp. 11-12, related by R. Zevin in the name of the Rebbe Rashab of Lubavitch). Interestingly, all the copies of this book which are bound with original bindings were artistically handcrafted and beautifully decorated, with no two copies identical. Most original bindings were made of fine mottled parchment, or a combination of leather and parchment (which some librarians mistook as "fish skin").
[11], 91; 69, [1]; 68, [1]; [1], 36, [2], 39-83; [1], 85-101, [1] leaves. 31.5 cm. Overall good condition. Stains. Minor tears to several leaves. Worming to several leaves, affecting text. Original light-colored parchment binding, artistically decorated. Damage to binding. Open tears to spine (rebacked with parchment and part of original spine).
This edition has several variants that differ in the number of title pages. Some copies are known to have seven title pages (and even eight, see Kedem Auction 59, item 88), and some, like this copy, were printed with only four title pages (see Bibliography of the Hebrew Book, and see article by Dan and Gita Yardeni, Alei Sefer, X, pp. 119-132).
Category
Classic Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $400
Unsold
"Pnei Yehoshua, Apei Zutrei – Panim Masbirot L'Halacha", [Part II], novellae on Tractates Ketubot, Gittin and Kiddushin, by R. Yaakov Yoshua [Falk], rabbi of Metz. Amsterdam, [1739]. First edition. First book of the author printed in his lifetime.
The work Pnei Yehoshua on Talmudic tractates is a classic Torah text, regularly studied to this day. The Mareh Yechezkel, rebbe of Deyzh, writes in his Responsa Avnei Tzedek, in the name of his teacher the Chatam Sofer: "I have heard directly from the mouth of my teacher the Chatam Sofer that from the time the Rashba wrote his composition, no work was written that can compare to the Pnei Yehoshua". The Chida, in his book Shem HaGedolim, writes: "The work Pnei Yehoshua earned him worldwide renown… I merited visiting him for several days, and his appearance is like an angel of G-d, and he gave me the book Pnei Yehoshua as a gift".
Several handwritten leaves (5 written pages) are bound at the beginning of the book, in early script (typical of ca. 18th century), novellae on Talmudic topics of chapter Eizehu Neshech, tractate Bava Metzia, copied from the Pnei Yehoshua (part III, Frankfurt am Main 1756). In the heading of the first page, the copyist writes: "Since the teaching of my relative, the author are so dear to me, I decided to copy here what he wrote at the beginning of Eizehu Neshech… and I did not merit to acquire his composition on Nezikin, to find pleasure in it".
Early ownership inscriptions, signatures and stamps. At the top of the title page, ownership inscriptions by three writers, one after the other: "This Pnei Yehoshua belongs to the distinguished community leader, R. Aharon Sh. of Oedekoven / And he gave it to me Nethanel Fürth / I purchased this book by exchange, Elchanan Henle son of the Torah scholar and dayan, R. Nethanel". Another ownership inscription on the title page and front endpaper: "Eli. R.G.".
R. Nethanel Fürth, whose signature appears in this book (d. Elul 1786) was a dayan in Mannheim. He was the son of R. Seligmann Dinkelspühl, dayan in Fürth; and son-in-law of R. Binyamin Wolf author of Ir Binyamin (a relative of the Pnei Yehoshua. The title page of his book Ir Binyamin, Frankfurt an der Oder 1698, lists his lineage up to R. Yoshua of Kraków author of Meginei Shlomo, also an ancestor of the Pnei Yehoshua).
His son, whose signature also appears in this book – R. Elchanan Henle Fürth-Dinkelspühl (d. Tishrei 1802), a dayan in Mannheim. In 1776, he was appointed rabbi of the Kloiz in Mannheim. He is presumably the one who wrote these five pages, copying from the book of his relative the Pnei Yehoshua.
4; 115; 106; 81; 20 leaves. Approx. 31 cm. Good condition. Stains (including dark stains). Creases. Minor tears to several leaves. Minor worming. Inner margins of several leaves reinforced with paper. New binding.
This edition has several variants. The Bibliography of the Hebrew Book and Vinograd-Rosenfeld record copies with a different foliation (4; 115; 106; 81; 26 leaves). However, in Otzar HaChochma and other libraries, there are copies with 20 leaves at the end, as in the present copy.
The work Pnei Yehoshua on Talmudic tractates is a classic Torah text, regularly studied to this day. The Mareh Yechezkel, rebbe of Deyzh, writes in his Responsa Avnei Tzedek, in the name of his teacher the Chatam Sofer: "I have heard directly from the mouth of my teacher the Chatam Sofer that from the time the Rashba wrote his composition, no work was written that can compare to the Pnei Yehoshua". The Chida, in his book Shem HaGedolim, writes: "The work Pnei Yehoshua earned him worldwide renown… I merited visiting him for several days, and his appearance is like an angel of G-d, and he gave me the book Pnei Yehoshua as a gift".
Several handwritten leaves (5 written pages) are bound at the beginning of the book, in early script (typical of ca. 18th century), novellae on Talmudic topics of chapter Eizehu Neshech, tractate Bava Metzia, copied from the Pnei Yehoshua (part III, Frankfurt am Main 1756). In the heading of the first page, the copyist writes: "Since the teaching of my relative, the author are so dear to me, I decided to copy here what he wrote at the beginning of Eizehu Neshech… and I did not merit to acquire his composition on Nezikin, to find pleasure in it".
Early ownership inscriptions, signatures and stamps. At the top of the title page, ownership inscriptions by three writers, one after the other: "This Pnei Yehoshua belongs to the distinguished community leader, R. Aharon Sh. of Oedekoven / And he gave it to me Nethanel Fürth / I purchased this book by exchange, Elchanan Henle son of the Torah scholar and dayan, R. Nethanel". Another ownership inscription on the title page and front endpaper: "Eli. R.G.".
R. Nethanel Fürth, whose signature appears in this book (d. Elul 1786) was a dayan in Mannheim. He was the son of R. Seligmann Dinkelspühl, dayan in Fürth; and son-in-law of R. Binyamin Wolf author of Ir Binyamin (a relative of the Pnei Yehoshua. The title page of his book Ir Binyamin, Frankfurt an der Oder 1698, lists his lineage up to R. Yoshua of Kraków author of Meginei Shlomo, also an ancestor of the Pnei Yehoshua).
His son, whose signature also appears in this book – R. Elchanan Henle Fürth-Dinkelspühl (d. Tishrei 1802), a dayan in Mannheim. In 1776, he was appointed rabbi of the Kloiz in Mannheim. He is presumably the one who wrote these five pages, copying from the book of his relative the Pnei Yehoshua.
4; 115; 106; 81; 20 leaves. Approx. 31 cm. Good condition. Stains (including dark stains). Creases. Minor tears to several leaves. Minor worming. Inner margins of several leaves reinforced with paper. New binding.
This edition has several variants. The Bibliography of the Hebrew Book and Vinograd-Rosenfeld record copies with a different foliation (4; 115; 106; 81; 26 leaves). However, in Otzar HaChochma and other libraries, there are copies with 20 leaves at the end, as in the present copy.
Category
Classic Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $300
Unsold
Responsa Noda BiYehuda, Mahadura Kama, Parts I-II, by R. Yechezkel HaLevi Segal Landau Rabbi of Prague. Prague, [1776-1777]. First edition. Separate title page for Part II.
Owner's signature at the top of the first title page: "Meir HaLevi". Owner's signature using the page number on leaf 4: "David Me[---]". The book contains several handwritten glosses, contesting the author's teachings.
The book was printed in stages. The printing began in Adar 1776 (as alluded to on the title page) and was concluded in Tevet 1777, as stated in the colophon at the end of Part II (p. 140a): "It was completed on… the 28th day… Tevet 1777". Sections 90-93 of Part I (with the well-known responsa against saying Leshem Yichud) are from Sivan 1776 – responsa written by the Noda BiYehuda several months after the printing had begun. Upon the completion of the printing of the book, the author delivered a special sermon in honor of the occasion "on Erev Rosh Chodesh Shevat 1777, upon the completion of his book Noda BiYehuda Kama" (Ahavat Tzion, Prague 1827, Derush 9, p. 18b).
In the foreword to Noda BiYehuda Mahadura Tinyana (Prague 1811), the author's son, R. Yaakov'ke of Brody, describes the printing of this book and the Noda BiYehuda's conduct at that time: "…from the day the printing press was established in Prague until now, they haven't printed such a beautiful and elegant book… He did not spare any money and did not request help or support. When it was concluded, he generously distributed many copies for free, and the rest he gave to booksellers at a set price, equal to all sellers. If a wealthy individual requested to purchase a book directly from him, he would graciously respond: 'I cannot do you this favor; the books can be found in the shops… all who wish can purchase them without favoritism'. Apparently, the money paid for the books did not cover the printing costs which he openhandedly dispensed".
In his book Shem HaGedolim, the Chida writes about the book Noda BiYehuda: "His responsa are based on pilpul and reasoning, astuteness and erudition, and he taught Torah to the Jewish people through his books and disciples… The wise man can discern from his books that the writer is superior among the leading Torah scholars of his times, an outstanding genius…".
The Baal HaTanya said in reference to the holiness and importance of this book and its rulings: "The Rabbi of Prague was peerless in his rulings and G-d was with him, for he… did not deviate from the truth in all his rulings. Even in regard to his long responsum in section 72, although many Torah scholars of his time disagreed with him, in fact the law is as he wrote…" (Mofet HaDor, p. 74).
[2], 86, [9] leaves; [1], 157 leaves. 31 cm. Light-colored, high-quality paper. Most leaves in very good condition. Stains and wear. Marginal paper repairs to title page. Tears and traces of past dampness to corners of leaves 1-29, affecting text of seven leaves. Stamps. New binding.
Owner's signature at the top of the first title page: "Meir HaLevi". Owner's signature using the page number on leaf 4: "David Me[---]". The book contains several handwritten glosses, contesting the author's teachings.
The book was printed in stages. The printing began in Adar 1776 (as alluded to on the title page) and was concluded in Tevet 1777, as stated in the colophon at the end of Part II (p. 140a): "It was completed on… the 28th day… Tevet 1777". Sections 90-93 of Part I (with the well-known responsa against saying Leshem Yichud) are from Sivan 1776 – responsa written by the Noda BiYehuda several months after the printing had begun. Upon the completion of the printing of the book, the author delivered a special sermon in honor of the occasion "on Erev Rosh Chodesh Shevat 1777, upon the completion of his book Noda BiYehuda Kama" (Ahavat Tzion, Prague 1827, Derush 9, p. 18b).
In the foreword to Noda BiYehuda Mahadura Tinyana (Prague 1811), the author's son, R. Yaakov'ke of Brody, describes the printing of this book and the Noda BiYehuda's conduct at that time: "…from the day the printing press was established in Prague until now, they haven't printed such a beautiful and elegant book… He did not spare any money and did not request help or support. When it was concluded, he generously distributed many copies for free, and the rest he gave to booksellers at a set price, equal to all sellers. If a wealthy individual requested to purchase a book directly from him, he would graciously respond: 'I cannot do you this favor; the books can be found in the shops… all who wish can purchase them without favoritism'. Apparently, the money paid for the books did not cover the printing costs which he openhandedly dispensed".
In his book Shem HaGedolim, the Chida writes about the book Noda BiYehuda: "His responsa are based on pilpul and reasoning, astuteness and erudition, and he taught Torah to the Jewish people through his books and disciples… The wise man can discern from his books that the writer is superior among the leading Torah scholars of his times, an outstanding genius…".
The Baal HaTanya said in reference to the holiness and importance of this book and its rulings: "The Rabbi of Prague was peerless in his rulings and G-d was with him, for he… did not deviate from the truth in all his rulings. Even in regard to his long responsum in section 72, although many Torah scholars of his time disagreed with him, in fact the law is as he wrote…" (Mofet HaDor, p. 74).
[2], 86, [9] leaves; [1], 157 leaves. 31 cm. Light-colored, high-quality paper. Most leaves in very good condition. Stains and wear. Marginal paper repairs to title page. Tears and traces of past dampness to corners of leaves 1-29, affecting text of seven leaves. Stamps. New binding.
Category
Classic Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $400
Unsold
Four books by R. Yosef Molcho, in three volumes:
• Shulchan Gavoha, on Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim, by R. Yosef Molcho. Salonika, [1756]. Bound with: Ohel Yosef, responsa, following the order of Arbaa Turim, by R. Yosef Molcho. Salonika, [1756]. First editions.
Signature on the title page: "G-d has favored me, and gave me this as well, Chaim Yosef Eliakim" (R. Yisrael Chaim Yosef Eliakim, author of Shem Yosef, a Torah scholar of Sofia). Inscription and calligraphic signature recording the purchase of the book from him: "I bought it from him… so says Yehuda son of R. Moshe Ali" (R. Yehuda Ali, author of Kemach Solet, a Torah scholar of Niš, Serbia). Additional inscription in Ladino, mentioning the name "R. Yosef Eliakim". A few glosses by various writers (a trimmed gloss handwritten by R. Chaim Yosef Eliakim. Another gloss signed: "Sh.M.").
Shulchan Gavoha: [1], 11; 1-61, 63-156; 33, [1], 40-62, 65-94, 93-102, 101-135 leaves. Lacking 9 leaves: [2], 62, 34-35, 37-39, 63-64. Leaves 34-35, 37-39, 63-64 replaced in handwriting (leaf 40 also replaced in handwriting, though original leaf is present, with open tear). 11 leaves following title page were originally bound at end of book. Ohel Yosef: [1], 1, 96, [7] leaves. Lacking 2 final leaves. 27 cm. Fair condition. Stains, including dampstains. Worming, on some leaves significant, affecting text. Open tears in several places, including title page. Leaves trimmed with damage to text. Old binding.
• Shulchan Gavoha, on Shulchan Aruch Yoreh De'ah, parts I and III, by R. Yosef Molcho. Salonika, [1764-1784]. Two volumes. First editions.
Several sections from the beginning of Orach Chaim are printed at the end of Part III.
Signature on title page of vol. I: "G-d favored me, and gave me this as well... Yehuda Ali…", Signatures on title page of vol. II: "I, Yehuda Ali...", "This is my book… Efraim Alkalai…".
Vol. I (Part I): [2], 213 leaves. Approx. 29 cm. Fair-good condition. Stains. Worming, affecting text. Old binding.
Vol. II (Part III): [1], 219; 41 leaves. 28 cm. Fair condition. Stains, including dampstains. Worming, affecting text. Wear. Open tears, primarily to first and final leaves, affecting text. Old binding.
All three volumes contain signatures and several glosses by R. Eliyahu HaKohen Rabin, rabbi of the Bukharan community in Jerusalem.
• Shulchan Gavoha, on Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim, by R. Yosef Molcho. Salonika, [1756]. Bound with: Ohel Yosef, responsa, following the order of Arbaa Turim, by R. Yosef Molcho. Salonika, [1756]. First editions.
Signature on the title page: "G-d has favored me, and gave me this as well, Chaim Yosef Eliakim" (R. Yisrael Chaim Yosef Eliakim, author of Shem Yosef, a Torah scholar of Sofia). Inscription and calligraphic signature recording the purchase of the book from him: "I bought it from him… so says Yehuda son of R. Moshe Ali" (R. Yehuda Ali, author of Kemach Solet, a Torah scholar of Niš, Serbia). Additional inscription in Ladino, mentioning the name "R. Yosef Eliakim". A few glosses by various writers (a trimmed gloss handwritten by R. Chaim Yosef Eliakim. Another gloss signed: "Sh.M.").
Shulchan Gavoha: [1], 11; 1-61, 63-156; 33, [1], 40-62, 65-94, 93-102, 101-135 leaves. Lacking 9 leaves: [2], 62, 34-35, 37-39, 63-64. Leaves 34-35, 37-39, 63-64 replaced in handwriting (leaf 40 also replaced in handwriting, though original leaf is present, with open tear). 11 leaves following title page were originally bound at end of book. Ohel Yosef: [1], 1, 96, [7] leaves. Lacking 2 final leaves. 27 cm. Fair condition. Stains, including dampstains. Worming, on some leaves significant, affecting text. Open tears in several places, including title page. Leaves trimmed with damage to text. Old binding.
• Shulchan Gavoha, on Shulchan Aruch Yoreh De'ah, parts I and III, by R. Yosef Molcho. Salonika, [1764-1784]. Two volumes. First editions.
Several sections from the beginning of Orach Chaim are printed at the end of Part III.
Signature on title page of vol. I: "G-d favored me, and gave me this as well... Yehuda Ali…", Signatures on title page of vol. II: "I, Yehuda Ali...", "This is my book… Efraim Alkalai…".
Vol. I (Part I): [2], 213 leaves. Approx. 29 cm. Fair-good condition. Stains. Worming, affecting text. Old binding.
Vol. II (Part III): [1], 219; 41 leaves. 28 cm. Fair condition. Stains, including dampstains. Worming, affecting text. Wear. Open tears, primarily to first and final leaves, affecting text. Old binding.
All three volumes contain signatures and several glosses by R. Eliyahu HaKohen Rabin, rabbi of the Bukharan community in Jerusalem.
Category
Classic Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $300
Sold for: $938
Including buyer's premium
Ketzot HaChoshen, on Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat, Part I, by R. Aryeh Leib HaKohen Heller. Lviv: Rebbetzin Yehudit [Rosanes], [1788]. First edition.
With Kuntres HaSefekot by the brother of the author, R. Yehuda HaKohen (author of Terumat HaKeri).
Ketzot HaChoshen is a classic work of scholarly Torah study, and for over two hundred years, has been considered the key guide for yeshiva in-depth Torah study throughout the world.
[2], 129; 15 leaves. 33 cm. Most leaves in good condition. Stains. Worming, affecting text. Large open tears to three final leaves, affecting text, repaired. Inscriptions on title page. New binding.
With Kuntres HaSefekot by the brother of the author, R. Yehuda HaKohen (author of Terumat HaKeri).
Ketzot HaChoshen is a classic work of scholarly Torah study, and for over two hundred years, has been considered the key guide for yeshiva in-depth Torah study throughout the world.
[2], 129; 15 leaves. 33 cm. Most leaves in good condition. Stains. Worming, affecting text. Large open tears to three final leaves, affecting text, repaired. Inscriptions on title page. New binding.
Category
Classic Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $400
Sold for: $2,500
Including buyer's premium
Complete set of Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim, with Be'er Hetev, Shaarei Teshuva and Yad Efraim. [Dubno, 1820]. Two parts in two volumes. First edition of Shaarei Teshuva by R. Chaim Mordechai Margolies, rabbi of Dubno and publisher of this edition; and first edition of Yad Efraim by his brother R. Efraim Zalman Margolies of Brody, printed in the lifetime of the authors.
Part I begins with approbations by R. Yaakov Rabbi of Lissa (author of Netivot HaMishpat), R. Moshe Sofer Rabbi of Pressburg (the Chatam Sofer), R. Aryeh Leib Katzenellenbogen Rabbi of Brisk, R. Mordechai of Kremnitz (son of R. Yechiel Michel of Zlotchov), R. Avraham Yehoshua Heshel Rabbi of Apta and Mezhibuzh, and R. Dov Ber of Lubavitch (the Mitteler rebbe).
Early ownership inscriptions: "Belongs to R. Menachem Mendel Margolies of Bieżuń[?], I purchased it from the great rabbi and Tzaddik, R. Chaim Schwersenz…".
[10], 371 leaves; [2], 325, [1] leaves. 20.5-21 cm. Overall good condition. Stains. Dark stains on title pages of both volumes. Worming to vol. II, affecting text on several leaves. Original leather bindings, damaged.
Part I begins with approbations by R. Yaakov Rabbi of Lissa (author of Netivot HaMishpat), R. Moshe Sofer Rabbi of Pressburg (the Chatam Sofer), R. Aryeh Leib Katzenellenbogen Rabbi of Brisk, R. Mordechai of Kremnitz (son of R. Yechiel Michel of Zlotchov), R. Avraham Yehoshua Heshel Rabbi of Apta and Mezhibuzh, and R. Dov Ber of Lubavitch (the Mitteler rebbe).
Early ownership inscriptions: "Belongs to R. Menachem Mendel Margolies of Bieżuń[?], I purchased it from the great rabbi and Tzaddik, R. Chaim Schwersenz…".
[10], 371 leaves; [2], 325, [1] leaves. 20.5-21 cm. Overall good condition. Stains. Dark stains on title pages of both volumes. Worming to vol. II, affecting text on several leaves. Original leather bindings, damaged.
Category
Classic Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $500
Sold for: $1,125
Including buyer's premium
Responsa of R. Akiva Eger, Sefer HaPesakim (halachic rulings) and Part I of Sefer HaKetavim (explanations of Talmudic topics). Warsaw, 1834. Two title pages.
First edition printed during the lifetime of the author, R. Akiva Eger, who requested of his sons to print it "on nice paper, in black ink and fine typeface, because, in my opinion, the soul reacts and the mind and concentration are awakened when studying from a fine and elegant book" (from the foreword). This book was indeed printed on thick, high-quality paper, manufactured especially for this printing (the watermarks of the paper bear the name of the manufacturer and the name of the customer "Eiger").
[2], 222 leaves. 33 cm. Thick high-quality paper, greenish in part. Good condition. Stains. Worming, slightly affecting text on last leaves. Stamps. New binding.
First edition printed during the lifetime of the author, R. Akiva Eger, who requested of his sons to print it "on nice paper, in black ink and fine typeface, because, in my opinion, the soul reacts and the mind and concentration are awakened when studying from a fine and elegant book" (from the foreword). This book was indeed printed on thick, high-quality paper, manufactured especially for this printing (the watermarks of the paper bear the name of the manufacturer and the name of the customer "Eiger").
[2], 222 leaves. 33 cm. Thick high-quality paper, greenish in part. Good condition. Stains. Worming, slightly affecting text on last leaves. Stamps. New binding.
Category
Classic Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $300
Sold for: $1,125
Including buyer's premium
Chafetz Chaim, laws of guarding one's speech – "Laws pertaining to the prohibitions of derogatory speech and talebearing, according to the halacha derived from the Talmud and halachic literature". Vilna, 1873. First edition.
This is the first book authored by R. Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Radin, and it was published anonymously, though his name appears in Russian at the foot of the title page.
R. Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Radin (1837-1933; Otzar HaRabbanim 12262), leader of the Jewish people, was widely known by the name of his first book, the Chafetz Chaim. He founded the Radin yeshiva and authored many halachic and ethical works: Mishna Berura, Shemirat HaLashon, Ahavat Chessed and dozens more.
[4], 2-3, [1], 8-78, 80-81 leaves (without 4 prenumeranten leaves added to some copies). First leaves bound out of sequence. Leaf 79 bound out of place, at the beginning. Approx. 21 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Open tear to last leaf, affecting text. Minor wear. Marginal creases. New binding.
This is the first book authored by R. Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Radin, and it was published anonymously, though his name appears in Russian at the foot of the title page.
R. Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Radin (1837-1933; Otzar HaRabbanim 12262), leader of the Jewish people, was widely known by the name of his first book, the Chafetz Chaim. He founded the Radin yeshiva and authored many halachic and ethical works: Mishna Berura, Shemirat HaLashon, Ahavat Chessed and dozens more.
[4], 2-3, [1], 8-78, 80-81 leaves (without 4 prenumeranten leaves added to some copies). First leaves bound out of sequence. Leaf 79 bound out of place, at the beginning. Approx. 21 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Open tear to last leaf, affecting text. Minor wear. Marginal creases. New binding.
Category
Classic Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $500
Unsold
Chiddushei Rabbenu Chaim HaLevi on the Rambam, by R. Chaim HaLevi Soloveitchik Rabbi of Brisk. Brisk, 1936. First edition.
The famed book of R. Chaim of Brisk, printed by his son, R. Yitzchak Ze'ev Soloveitchik, some 18 years after the death of the author in 1918. This book is R. Chaim's magnum opus and a promise that it will be published was inscribed on his tombstone: "He left behind a manuscript of a large composition on the Rambam which will be published". For various reasons, the printing of this book was delayed for a long time. The main reason for the delay was the lack of 600 dollars (a huge sum in those days) necessary for printing the book. In the 1930s, R. Yechezkel Abramsky, who was a close disciple of R. Chaim, printed a public proclamation calling rabbis and donors to undertake the collection of funds for printing the book. In this proclamation, R. Abramsky describes the book with these words: "This book contains Torah novellae which he taught in public over a period of thirteen years, when he served as dean of the outstanding Volozhin yeshiva. These novellae pave the correct path to immediately pinpoint the core of each topic, with understanding of the depth and essence of each subject under discussion, as he polishes, straightens, refines and clarifies the root of the halacha and all its branches…".
When the printing of the book finally began, some of the admirers of R. Chaim and his teachings did not have the patience to wait until the work was completed and requested that each completed section be immediately sent to them. We know of three who thus received these booklets immediately after printing: R. Chaim Ozer Grodzinski, the Dvar Avraham of Kovno and R. Yechezkel Abramsky.
The famous foreword written by his sons is a masterwork in its own right, and it was reviewed and perfected to the point that each word was written after much deliberation. His sons wrote in the foreword that R. Chaim's method of study "followed the path taught by our rabbis, the Rishonim". This sentence was written by the directive of the author's close companion, the famous posek of Brisk, R. Simcha Zelig Rieger, but the author's sons hesitated to write this. At that time, R. Chaim appeared to R. Simcha Zelig in a dream and told him that now in the World of Truth, he has come to realize that indeed his study approach "follows the path taught by our rabbis, the Rishonim". Thus, the author's sons agreed to include this sentence in their foreword. Reputedly, the closing sentence "Who sign whilst trembling, sons of the author", was written by R. Yitzchak Ze'ev while his hands actually trembled (Sh. Meller, Raban shel kol Bnei HaGolah, I, Jerusalem 2014, pp. 592-593 and note 60).
For more information regarding the special status of this book in the Torah world, from the day it was published until today, and about the trials and tribulations encountered during the printing, see: Sh. Meller, Raban shel kol Bnei HaGolah, I, Jerusalem 2014, Chapter 15 "Heirloom for Generations", pp. 545-616; A. Suraski, Melech B'Yofyo, Jerusalem 2004, pp. 282-287; 219-221.
[1], 112 leaves. High-quality paper. 33.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Numerous stains, wear. Minor tears. Marginal paper repairs to first two leaves. Handwritten inscription on title page. New leather binding.
--------------------------
Dancing with "R. Chaim" on Simchat Torah
"R. Baruch Dov [Leibowitz] became very excited upon seeing R. Chaim Solovietchik's book Chiddushei Rabbenu Chaim HaLevi in print, and he whispered several times: 'The holy rabbi's book'. He ordered wine to be served, and said that if only they would discern the great light shining now in the world, they would joyfully escort the book with instruments and dancing. His mind wasn't put at ease until he found the opportunity to do just that. At the time of the dedication of the new building of the Kamenitz Yeshiva (Chanukah 1936), when the yeshiva's Torah scrolls were being brought to their new home under a chuppah with instruments and dancing, R. Baruch Dov led the parade holding R. Chaim Soloveitchik's book in his hand" (Rabbi Baruch Dov Leibowitz, Tel Aviv 1957, p. 80). On Simchat Torah in the Kamenitz Yeshiva, R. Baruch Ber and his disciples danced with the book of his prime teacher (Raban shel kol Bnei HaGolah, I, Jerusalem 2014, p. 589).
Following the passing of R. Shlomo Zalman Auerbach, one of the grandsons divided up his books between the family members. When his uncle R. Shmuel Auerbach was asked which books he wished to receive, he asked for only two books which he had an emotional connection with, and one was the book Chiddushei Rabbenu Chaim HaLevi (first edition). On that occasion, R. Shmuel related that when the book was published, his father R. Shlomo Zalman sent a letter from Jerusalem to R. Yitzchak Ze'ev in Brisk, requesting to purchase the book, with the payment enclosed, and the book was sent to him by post from Brisk. R. Shmuel thus explained the importance of this book in his eyes. (Shmuel BeDoro, Jerusalem, 2020, p. 336).
The famed book of R. Chaim of Brisk, printed by his son, R. Yitzchak Ze'ev Soloveitchik, some 18 years after the death of the author in 1918. This book is R. Chaim's magnum opus and a promise that it will be published was inscribed on his tombstone: "He left behind a manuscript of a large composition on the Rambam which will be published". For various reasons, the printing of this book was delayed for a long time. The main reason for the delay was the lack of 600 dollars (a huge sum in those days) necessary for printing the book. In the 1930s, R. Yechezkel Abramsky, who was a close disciple of R. Chaim, printed a public proclamation calling rabbis and donors to undertake the collection of funds for printing the book. In this proclamation, R. Abramsky describes the book with these words: "This book contains Torah novellae which he taught in public over a period of thirteen years, when he served as dean of the outstanding Volozhin yeshiva. These novellae pave the correct path to immediately pinpoint the core of each topic, with understanding of the depth and essence of each subject under discussion, as he polishes, straightens, refines and clarifies the root of the halacha and all its branches…".
When the printing of the book finally began, some of the admirers of R. Chaim and his teachings did not have the patience to wait until the work was completed and requested that each completed section be immediately sent to them. We know of three who thus received these booklets immediately after printing: R. Chaim Ozer Grodzinski, the Dvar Avraham of Kovno and R. Yechezkel Abramsky.
The famous foreword written by his sons is a masterwork in its own right, and it was reviewed and perfected to the point that each word was written after much deliberation. His sons wrote in the foreword that R. Chaim's method of study "followed the path taught by our rabbis, the Rishonim". This sentence was written by the directive of the author's close companion, the famous posek of Brisk, R. Simcha Zelig Rieger, but the author's sons hesitated to write this. At that time, R. Chaim appeared to R. Simcha Zelig in a dream and told him that now in the World of Truth, he has come to realize that indeed his study approach "follows the path taught by our rabbis, the Rishonim". Thus, the author's sons agreed to include this sentence in their foreword. Reputedly, the closing sentence "Who sign whilst trembling, sons of the author", was written by R. Yitzchak Ze'ev while his hands actually trembled (Sh. Meller, Raban shel kol Bnei HaGolah, I, Jerusalem 2014, pp. 592-593 and note 60).
For more information regarding the special status of this book in the Torah world, from the day it was published until today, and about the trials and tribulations encountered during the printing, see: Sh. Meller, Raban shel kol Bnei HaGolah, I, Jerusalem 2014, Chapter 15 "Heirloom for Generations", pp. 545-616; A. Suraski, Melech B'Yofyo, Jerusalem 2004, pp. 282-287; 219-221.
[1], 112 leaves. High-quality paper. 33.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Numerous stains, wear. Minor tears. Marginal paper repairs to first two leaves. Handwritten inscription on title page. New leather binding.
--------------------------
Dancing with "R. Chaim" on Simchat Torah
"R. Baruch Dov [Leibowitz] became very excited upon seeing R. Chaim Solovietchik's book Chiddushei Rabbenu Chaim HaLevi in print, and he whispered several times: 'The holy rabbi's book'. He ordered wine to be served, and said that if only they would discern the great light shining now in the world, they would joyfully escort the book with instruments and dancing. His mind wasn't put at ease until he found the opportunity to do just that. At the time of the dedication of the new building of the Kamenitz Yeshiva (Chanukah 1936), when the yeshiva's Torah scrolls were being brought to their new home under a chuppah with instruments and dancing, R. Baruch Dov led the parade holding R. Chaim Soloveitchik's book in his hand" (Rabbi Baruch Dov Leibowitz, Tel Aviv 1957, p. 80). On Simchat Torah in the Kamenitz Yeshiva, R. Baruch Ber and his disciples danced with the book of his prime teacher (Raban shel kol Bnei HaGolah, I, Jerusalem 2014, p. 589).
Following the passing of R. Shlomo Zalman Auerbach, one of the grandsons divided up his books between the family members. When his uncle R. Shmuel Auerbach was asked which books he wished to receive, he asked for only two books which he had an emotional connection with, and one was the book Chiddushei Rabbenu Chaim HaLevi (first edition). On that occasion, R. Shmuel related that when the book was published, his father R. Shlomo Zalman sent a letter from Jerusalem to R. Yitzchak Ze'ev in Brisk, requesting to purchase the book, with the payment enclosed, and the book was sent to him by post from Brisk. R. Shmuel thus explained the importance of this book in his eyes. (Shmuel BeDoro, Jerusalem, 2020, p. 336).
Category
Classic Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $1,000
Sold for: $2,250
Including buyer's premium
Zohar Chadash and Midrash HaNe'elam and Tikkunim by R. Shimon bar Yochai. With: Midrash [Zohar] on Shir HaShirim and Eichah. Kraków: Isaac son of Aaron of Prostitz: [1603]. Second edition.
Two parts in one volume. Separate title page for Midrash Shir HaShirim and Eichah.
This edition features a new foreword from the kabbalist R. Moshe Mordechai Margolies Rabbi of Kraków, who proofread and corrected the text of the first edition.
Ownership inscription on title page: "R. Uri Mordechai of Bolekhiv". Another deleted inscription.
Glosses in early Ashkenazic script on p. 111b.
[6], 112; 48; 36 leaves. The leaves of part two were originally bound in opposite order: 36; 48 leaves. 17.5 cm. Good condition. Stains, including dampstains. Tears to final leaves, repaired. Minor worming. Leaves trimmed, affecting text (with loss), and affecting title border of Part II. Inscriptions. Old binding, with minor damage.
Two parts in one volume. Separate title page for Midrash Shir HaShirim and Eichah.
This edition features a new foreword from the kabbalist R. Moshe Mordechai Margolies Rabbi of Kraków, who proofread and corrected the text of the first edition.
Ownership inscription on title page: "R. Uri Mordechai of Bolekhiv". Another deleted inscription.
Glosses in early Ashkenazic script on p. 111b.
[6], 112; 48; 36 leaves. The leaves of part two were originally bound in opposite order: 36; 48 leaves. 17.5 cm. Good condition. Stains, including dampstains. Tears to final leaves, repaired. Minor worming. Leaves trimmed, affecting text (with loss), and affecting title border of Part II. Inscriptions. Old binding, with minor damage.
Category
Kabbalah Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $800
Unsold
Ginat Egoz – Kabbalah, by R. Yosef Gikatilla. Hanau: Eliezer son of Chaim and Eliyahu son of Seligman Ulma, [1614]. First edition. Approbation by R. Yeshaya Horowitz (the Shelah).
Title printed in red and black within historiated border. Kabbalistic diagrams.
44, 43-58, 58-75 leaves. Misfoliation. 29 cm. Fair condition. Heavy browning to text block. Stains (including dampstains) and wear. Open tears to title page, repaired (with photocopy replacement) and to final leaf (affecting text). Worming to title page (affecting illustrations), and in other places, repaired. New leather binding.
Title printed in red and black within historiated border. Kabbalistic diagrams.
44, 43-58, 58-75 leaves. Misfoliation. 29 cm. Fair condition. Heavy browning to text block. Stains (including dampstains) and wear. Open tears to title page, repaired (with photocopy replacement) and to final leaf (affecting text). Worming to title page (affecting illustrations), and in other places, repaired. New leather binding.
Category
Kabbalah Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $800
Sold for: $1,500
Including buyer's premium
Semichat Chachamim, Part I – Birkat Hashem – Preface to Semichat Chachamim, and Part II – Kedusha UBeracha, novellae on tractate Berachot, by the kabbalist R. Naftali HaKohen Katz, rabbi of Frankfurt am Main. Frankfurt am Main, [1704-1706]. First edition. Two elaborate woodcut title pages. The first title page is followes by a plate featuring a star-shaped poem.
On the first title page: signature of R. "Zalman Posner", and of his son R. "Yaakov Pozna". On the back endpaper, ownership inscription: "Belongs to the renowned R. Yaakov Pozna, Frankfurt am Main".
This copy bears signatures of the forefathers of the Posen family rabbinic dynasty, which stemmed from leading German rabbis, and continues until this day with its descendants serving as rabbis in Eretz Israel, the United States and Europe.
The patriarch of the family, whose signature appears in this book was R. Yekutiel Zalman Pozna, dayan in Offenbach and rabbi of Friedberg (d. 1793). At a young age, he left Posen (Poznań), his hometown, and wandered from Greater Poland to the states of Germany (in those times, the Province of Posen belonged to Poland).
His son, whose signature also appears in this book, was R. Yaakov Posen (or Pozna, 1772-1849), a dayan in Frankfurt am Main who served in the Beit Din of the Haflaa and the latter's son, the Machaneh Levi. At R. Yaakov Posen's funeral, the Frankfurt community board intervened, and barred rabbis who battled the Reform movement from eulogizing him at the cemetery. The Posen family consequently initiated the establishment of R. Shimshon Refael Hirsch's independent Orthodox community. His son was R. Eliezer Posen, rabbi of the Chevrat Kloiz in Frankfurt am Main (1803-1866), and his grandson was R. Gershon Posen, who served as dayan in Frankfurt for fifty years.
The book was named Semichat Chachamim. Part I, a lengthy foreword on Kabbalah, is entitled Birkat Hashem on the title page, and part II, novellae on tractate Berachot, bears the title of Kedusha UBeracha.
The book was printed in the lifetime of the author – R. Naftali Katz (1650-1719) a foremost kabbalist, rabbi of Ostroh, Posen and Frankfurt am Main. From a young age, R. Naftali Katz adopted his awesome and holy practices and studied with outstanding diligence, until he knew the entire Talmud by heart. Immediately following his wedding, he was appointed dean of the Ostroh yeshiva, and at the age of 30, he was appointed rabbi of Ostroh and the entire district of Ukraine. In 1689, he went to serve as rabbi of Posen. At that time, when he was only forty years old, he was appointed head of the Vaad Arba Aratzot, a position which was in effect the highest Torah authority in all Ashkenazic countries. In 1704, he was appointed rabbi of Frankfurt am Main, capital of Torah study in Germany. After the great fire in Frankfurt am Main in 1711, he was compelled to flee (due to the rumor that the fire broke out due to his engaging in practical Kabbalah, performing hashbaot and writing amulets). After much wandering, he set out for Eretz Israel, yet fell ill in Constantinople, were he passed away. His gravesite in Constantinople serves until this day as a pilgrimage destination for prayer and salvation.
Reputedly, when the Baal Shem Tov arrived in Constantinople on his way to Eretz Israel, R. Naftali Katz appeared to him in a dream and revealed to him that he would not merit to immigrate to Eretz Israel, just like he himself hadn't and had passed away in Constantinople. The Baal Shem Tov therefore returned to his town, Medzhybizh.
[2], 3-79; [1], 140, [1] leaves. 33 cm. Thick, high-quality paper. Wide margins. Good-fair condition. Many stains. Tears and wear to first title page and margins of first leaves. Open marginal tears to leaf [2], slightly affecting text (this leaf, with the star-shaped poem, is wider than the other leaves and folded). Damage from past dampness and mold stains to margins of first and final leaves. New binding.
Bound before leaf 140, is the rare leaf entitled "Omitted from the glosses of Kedusha UBeracha", which was added to the book after the printing. This leaf does not appear in the copy scanned into Otzar HaChochma, but it is included in the copy scanned into Hebrew Books.
On the first title page: signature of R. "Zalman Posner", and of his son R. "Yaakov Pozna". On the back endpaper, ownership inscription: "Belongs to the renowned R. Yaakov Pozna, Frankfurt am Main".
This copy bears signatures of the forefathers of the Posen family rabbinic dynasty, which stemmed from leading German rabbis, and continues until this day with its descendants serving as rabbis in Eretz Israel, the United States and Europe.
The patriarch of the family, whose signature appears in this book was R. Yekutiel Zalman Pozna, dayan in Offenbach and rabbi of Friedberg (d. 1793). At a young age, he left Posen (Poznań), his hometown, and wandered from Greater Poland to the states of Germany (in those times, the Province of Posen belonged to Poland).
His son, whose signature also appears in this book, was R. Yaakov Posen (or Pozna, 1772-1849), a dayan in Frankfurt am Main who served in the Beit Din of the Haflaa and the latter's son, the Machaneh Levi. At R. Yaakov Posen's funeral, the Frankfurt community board intervened, and barred rabbis who battled the Reform movement from eulogizing him at the cemetery. The Posen family consequently initiated the establishment of R. Shimshon Refael Hirsch's independent Orthodox community. His son was R. Eliezer Posen, rabbi of the Chevrat Kloiz in Frankfurt am Main (1803-1866), and his grandson was R. Gershon Posen, who served as dayan in Frankfurt for fifty years.
The book was named Semichat Chachamim. Part I, a lengthy foreword on Kabbalah, is entitled Birkat Hashem on the title page, and part II, novellae on tractate Berachot, bears the title of Kedusha UBeracha.
The book was printed in the lifetime of the author – R. Naftali Katz (1650-1719) a foremost kabbalist, rabbi of Ostroh, Posen and Frankfurt am Main. From a young age, R. Naftali Katz adopted his awesome and holy practices and studied with outstanding diligence, until he knew the entire Talmud by heart. Immediately following his wedding, he was appointed dean of the Ostroh yeshiva, and at the age of 30, he was appointed rabbi of Ostroh and the entire district of Ukraine. In 1689, he went to serve as rabbi of Posen. At that time, when he was only forty years old, he was appointed head of the Vaad Arba Aratzot, a position which was in effect the highest Torah authority in all Ashkenazic countries. In 1704, he was appointed rabbi of Frankfurt am Main, capital of Torah study in Germany. After the great fire in Frankfurt am Main in 1711, he was compelled to flee (due to the rumor that the fire broke out due to his engaging in practical Kabbalah, performing hashbaot and writing amulets). After much wandering, he set out for Eretz Israel, yet fell ill in Constantinople, were he passed away. His gravesite in Constantinople serves until this day as a pilgrimage destination for prayer and salvation.
Reputedly, when the Baal Shem Tov arrived in Constantinople on his way to Eretz Israel, R. Naftali Katz appeared to him in a dream and revealed to him that he would not merit to immigrate to Eretz Israel, just like he himself hadn't and had passed away in Constantinople. The Baal Shem Tov therefore returned to his town, Medzhybizh.
[2], 3-79; [1], 140, [1] leaves. 33 cm. Thick, high-quality paper. Wide margins. Good-fair condition. Many stains. Tears and wear to first title page and margins of first leaves. Open marginal tears to leaf [2], slightly affecting text (this leaf, with the star-shaped poem, is wider than the other leaves and folded). Damage from past dampness and mold stains to margins of first and final leaves. New binding.
Bound before leaf 140, is the rare leaf entitled "Omitted from the glosses of Kedusha UBeracha", which was added to the book after the printing. This leaf does not appear in the copy scanned into Otzar HaChochma, but it is included in the copy scanned into Hebrew Books.
Category
Kabbalah Books
Catalogue