Psalms in Hebrew | The first printing of any part of the Bible in Hebrew in America
Estimate:
6,000
Psalms in Hebrew
Sepher Tehillim [in Hebrew type]. Liber Psalmorum Hebraïce cum Notis Selectis ex Editione Frances Hare S.T.P. Episcopi Cicestrensis: et cum Selecta Lectionum Varietate Ex Ed. Vet. Test. Heb. Benj. Kennicott S.T.P. Cambridge, Massachusetts: Hilliard & Metcalf, 1809
12mo (172 x 108 mm). Unvocalized Hebrew text of Psalms at the top of each page with Latin translation below, two parallel columns in Latin below the translation; the first containing selected Latin notes from the edition of Francis Hare and the second, selected variant readings from the work of Benjamin Kennicott; some light text browning and occasional scattered foxing or spotting. Contemporary mottled calf; neatly rebacked with original spine laid down. Burgundy cloth chemise and full crimson morocco slipcase gilt-ruled and lettered.
The first printing of any part of the Bible in Hebrew in America. Its appearance sparked a desire to print the complete Hebrew Bible in the New World, which reached fruition in 1814. A highly desired piece of American Judaica, and important rarity of American Bibles.
PROVENANCE
Joseph Allen (ownership inscription on front free endpaper with note: “Cambridge University | 1809”)
REFERENCE
Celebration of My Country 158; Goldman, Hebrew Printing in America 1; Rosenbach 152 (locating only one copy— his own); Sabin 66455; Shaw & Shoemaker 17004; Wright, Early Bibles in America, p. 122
Condition as described in catalogue entry.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.