Bidspirit auction | Mikraot Gedolot (Rabbinic Bible). Basel,

Mikraot Gedolot (Rabbinic Bible). Basel, 1618–1619. Magnificent Two-Volume Set in Contemporary Vellum Bindings - The celebrated Basel edition of the Mikraot Gedolot, one of the most important and influential editions of the Hebrew Bible ever printed. Its significance derives in large part from the complete printing of both the Masorah Magna and Masorah Parva, carefully revised and corrected to eliminate transcription errors that had entered earlier editions. As such, this edition is regarded as a cornerstone in the study of the biblical text and the Masoretic tradition. A handsome and meticulously produced edition, incorporating corrections and additions based on earlier Mikraot Gedolot printings. It includes the commentaries of the foremost classical exegetes: Rashi on the entire Bible; Ibn Ezra on the Torah and portions of the Prophets and Writings; Radak; Ralbag; Rabbeinu Saadiah Gaon; and other important commentators. The edition also includes the influential Latin treatise Tiberias by the renowned Christian Hebraist Johann Buxtorf, who was himself involved in the preparation of this edition. Presented here is an especially impressive copy: a complete two-volume set in substantial folio format, preserved in its original seventeenth-century vellum bindings, decorated with attractive central panel stamps. The leaves are remarkably bright and fresh, with exceptionally wide margins throughout, and the volumes have survived in outstanding condition, giving the appearance of a copy only recently issued from the press. Volume I: [6], 228; [1], 234–441 leaves. Volume II: [1], 442–946; 67; [1] blank leaf; 114; [4] leaves. Height: 42.5 cm. A complete, large-format, and exceptionally impressive copy of one of the foundational editions in the history of Hebrew Bible printing, preserved in its original contemporary vellum bindings. Condition: Good to very good. Minor wear and small defects to the corners of the pages.