Bidspirit auction | Ohel David – By Rabbi

Ohel David – By Rabbi David Rachbi of Cochin – Amsterdam, 1791 – Limited Print Run of Fifty Copies – Original Elaborate Leather Binding – First Book Printed by a Jew of Cochin, India - Ohel David, on intercalation and calendrical computations, by R. David Rachbi of Cochin (India). Amsterdam: Yosef son of Yaakov Proops Katz and widow and orphans of Yaakov Proops Katz, [1791]. Landscape (wide) format. Original elaborate leather binding, with gilt decorations. The author, R. David Rachbi son of R. Yechezkel (grandson of the first R. David Rachbi) was a leader of the Jewish community of Cochin, India. The present book was the first to be published by an author from Cochin. During Dutch rule in Cochin (1663-1795), the Jewish community enjoyed increased stability and religious freedom (after the annulment of restrictions imposed by the Portuguese), as well as continuous contact with the Jewish community in Amsterdam. [1], 18, [1] folding leaf. Width exceeds length. Approx. 23.5X20 cm. Wide margins. Good-fair condition. Stains, including dampstains. Wear. Loose and partially detached leaves and gatherings. Close trimming, slightly affecting title frame. Original leather binding, with original color endpaper. Defects to binding (repaired). Bookplate of Mozes Heiman Gans. Rare book, printed in 50 copies only.