Nachlath Avoth [commentary to Ethics of the Fathers, with text]
AUCTION 65 |
Thursday, June 25th,
2015 at 1:00
Fine Judaica: Printed Books, Manuscripts, Ceremonial Objects and Graphic Art
Lot 57
ABRABANEL, DON ISAAC.
Nachlath Avoth [commentary to Ethics of the Fathers, with text]
Constantinople: David & Samuel ibn Nahmias 1505
Est: $7,000 - $10,000
Nachlath Avoth [“The Inheritance of the Fathers”] contains Abrabanel’s testimony to the merit of the suffering endured due to the Expulsion from Spain. Abrabanel asserts that what gives meaning to Jewish tragedy is the moral heritage that has been guarded by generations of Jews and which, Abrabanel warns, is in jeopardy due to the rising materialistic tendencies post-Exile.
The Nahmias Brothers, who printed this compendium were themselves exiles from Spain who established their press in 1505. It was the first printing-press beyond Europe’s borders.
For a detailed biography of Abrabarnel’s experiences and philosophical conclusions regarding the Spanish Expulsion see B. Netanyahu, Don Isaac Abravanel, Statesman & Philosopher (1968).