Auction 30 · Lot 60

Kad Hakemach [“A Jar of Flour,” i.e. substance of truth]

Estimate: $300–$400
Hammer price: $500

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

author

BACHIAH BEN ASHER

printer

Cornelio Adelkind for Marco Antonio Giustiniani

Place

Venice

Publication

1546

Description

Second edition. Title and opening words within architectural arch. Printer’s device on title (Yaari no.17). Marginalia including a lengthy scholarly note on f.15a

references

Vinograd, Venice 268; Habermann, Adelkind 47; not in Adams

summary

In Kad Ha’kemach, the author treats his subject from a purely religious point of view without attempting to find a speculative basis for the virtues he inculcates. Topics are arranged alphabetically and besides strictly ethical themes (humility, purity of the heart, patience and so), principles that bear on rite and ceremonies are included. Here and there, R. Bachiah endeavors to give to his ethical teachings a philosophical aspect. The book is replete with homiletic interpretations of Biblical verses and Agadic passages as well as the Kabbalistic teachings to which R. Bachiah was inclined. See M. Waxman, Vol. II pp. 275-6

ff. 83. Previous owner’s marks, few margins frayed, lower margin of title repaired affecting portion of frame, final leaf mounted with upper margin cut. Modern boards. Folio

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