Auction 11 · Lot 71

(“Hapenini”). Bechinath Olam [ethics]. With commentaries by Moses ibn Chabib and R. Joseph Frances

Estimate: $1,500–$2,500
Hammer price: $1,900

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

author

JEDAIAH BEDARSI

printer

Samuel Gallus (Zarfati)

Place

Ferrara

Publication

1552

Description

FIRST EDITION with the commentary. Title within woodcut architectural arch surrounded by armaments

references

Vinograd, Ferrara 6; Mehlman 968; not in Adams

summary

A profound poetic composition on the futility and vanity of the World and the inestimably greater benefits of intellectual and religious pursuits. The author finds consolation in Maimonides’ world of ideas, concluding that the greatest achievement for Man is to “perfect one’s understanding and immerse oneself in the grandeur of the idea of God. No power in the World can can break Man’s will when he strives toward this exalted goal.” For an extensive critical analysis of Jedaiah Hapenini’s poetic style, see I. Zinberg, Vol. III, pp. 96-8

ff. 122,13. Lightly browned and stained in places, title page laid down affecting a few words. Later vellum, worn. 4to

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