Kehunat Avraham (Priesthood of Abraham), Abraham ben Sabbetai ha-Kohen, Venice, Bragadin: 1719

220 leaves (7 1/2 x 5 1/4 in.; 190 x 135 mm). FOLIATION: (2), 8, 49, 40, 30, 26, 52 (1), 53-64=220 leaves. Two illustrated title pages, the second with author's self-portrait; five divisional title pages; another plate between ff. 52-53 in final part. Dampstaining, mostly marginal; marginal tape repairs to second title page and first sectional title; edges tinted red. Modern red polished calf; gilt titles on spine.

Vinograd, Venice 1660; Rubens, History of Jewish Costume no. 8; Meir Benayahu, "Rabbi Abraham Hacohen of Zante and the Padua group of doctor-poets" Hasifrut , vol. 26:1978, pp.108-40.

The artistry of Abraham ben Sabbetai ha-Kohen (1670-1729) went beyond his authorship of this literary poetical paraphrase of Psalms in 1719. It extended to the plastic arts as well, as attested to by his self portrait, found on the second of two decorated title pages. In the text surrounding the framed portrait, he further styles himself as physician and philosopher. Among the earliest examples of rabbinic portraiture, Abraham is seen here wearing a long wig, not uncommon for the period, and known to us from other rabbinic portraits such as the famous representation of David Nieto of London. The volume also includes Abraham's versified commentary on Perek Shirah called Bnei Keturah. Abraham was born on the island of Crete and lived most of his life on the island of Zante (Zakynthos.)