The Kennicott Bible.
19856343London: Facsimile Editions 1985. Edition limited to 500 copies. Very Good/Fine facsimile of "Ms Kennicotti" held in the Bodleian Library at Oxford University a finely decorated manuscript of the Hebrew Bible that resembles in some ways the Book of Kells in the use of animal figures and and intricate marginal decorations although the style comes from the Ibero-Islamic tradition rather than the Celtic one. The manuscript was copied out twenty years prior to the expulsion of Jews from Spain in 1492 by Moshe Ibn Zabara and Yosef Ibn Chaim containing the entire Tanak together with the Radak commentary and Sefer HaMichlol. It is known as the "Kennicott Bible" after Benjamin Kennicot 1718-1783 the English clergyman and Hebraist who acquired the manuscript for Oxford University. An exceptionally beautiful facsimile five and a half years in the making it is printed on deluxe paper stock intended to reproduce the appearance of the original vellum. The gold highlights in the facsimile illustrations were applied by hand. The commentary by Bezalel Narkiss and Aliza Cohen-Mushlin provides a scholarly yet approachable historical context and artistic appreciation. A remarkable production!. 34 cm; 2 volumes 444 leaves facsimile; 97 pages commentary. Hebrew and English. Each volume in sturdy blindstamped leather bindings housed in custom velvet-lined blue cloth folding case. Slight surface mark on lower board of facsimile; surface scratch on lower board of commentary folding case a little dusty closure strap somewhat distressed else fine. Extra shipping charges will apply. [Facsimile Editions] hardcover books
