(Commonly misattributed to Jonah Gerondi). Sepher Isur V’Heter [dietary and medical laws]

Estimate: $2,000–$3,000
Hammer price: $1,700

Historical auction record. Hammer prices exclude buyer’s premium and taxes.

author

ASCHKENAZI, JONAH

printer

Abraham ibn Usque

Place

Ferrara

Publication

1555

Description

FIRST EDITION. Title within architectural arch with the printer’s device of an armillary sphere resting on a scroll a verse from Psalm 130:5 (illustrated EJ, XIII col.1094 no. 7)

references

Vinograd, Ferrara 32; Adams J-312; Amram pp. 280-2

summary

The printer, formerly known as Duarte Pinel, fled his home in Portugal, for safety in Italy, following the unmasking of his heretofore concealed Marrano identity in 1550. Usque was responsible for the appearance two years earlier of the celebrated “Ferrara Bible” - the first edition of the Old Testament in Spanish - a testament to the tolerance and liberal sentiment of the brilliant Renaissance court of the princely Family of Este, rulers of the Duchy of Ferrara.

ff. 174. Lightly browned, stained in places. Later half-moroco backed marbled boards, upper and lower covers detached, lacking spine. Small 4to

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