Portrait of Rabbi Jacob Sasportas. Engraving by Pieter van Gunst. [Amsterdam, ca. 1698].
This portrait of Rabbi Jacob Sasportas is enclosed in a circular frame bearing the inscription: “Doctissimo y Clarissimo Señor H. H. Reby Yahacob Sasportas. Rabino del K. K. de Amsterdam, Faleció en 4. Hiyar Año 5458.” Underneath the portrait is the Hebrew inscription “Rabbi of the ‘Kolel, ’ Jacob Sasportas of blessed memory, passed away Tuesday, the 4th of the Month of Iyar, Year 5458… [April 15, 1698].” An additional text in his memory, in Portuguese, appears in the bottom margin.

Rabbi Jacob Sasportas (1610–1698) was one of the great Torah scholars of the Amsterdam community and one of the fiercest opponents of the Sabbatean movement. Born in Oran, Algeria. Spent periods of time – and was active –in Amsterdam, Hamburg, London, and Livorno. Passed away in Amsterdam. His renowned Hebrew work, “Tzitzat Novel Zevi” (completed 1672–73), was an important contribution in his campaign against the Sabbateans.

Approx. 32.5X23.5 cm. Good condition. Minor stains.

Provenance: The Gross Family Collection, Tel Aviv, No. 112.011.001.