Kevod Elo-him [philosophy]

Estimate: $1,200–$1,800
Hammer price: $1,600

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

author

JOSEPH BEN SHEM TOV IBN SHEM TOV.

printer

Abraham ibn Usque

Place

Ferrara

Publication

1556

Description

FIRST EDITION. Title within architectural arch with the printer’s device of an armillary sphere resting on a scroll with verse from Psalm 130:5 (Yaari, no.22). With the scarce colophon leaf (lacking in many copies) repeating device.

references

Vinograd, Ferrara 40; Adams J-348; St. Cat. Bodl. 6003,1( lib. rarrisimus); Deinard, Atikoth Yehudah p.23.

summary

The author (c.1400-1460) was a noted Spanish scholar and philosopher who served as the physician and financial administrator for the Castilian King Henry IV. Kevod Elo-him, delineates the differences between Judaism and Aristoteliansim, with the author forcefully positing that only by following the dictates of the Torah can one find the path to immortality.

ff.(32). Slight marginal worming in places, some staining, small tear on upper corner of final leaf not affecting text. Modern crushed morocco. Sm. 4to.

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