Auction 16
Lot 159:
The intellectual Naftali Hertz Wessely (1725-1805) was among the forefathers of the Jewish Haskala movement. He spent his whole life on the line between religion (halacha) and the Haskala. The book is a epic song on the period of the Bible, dealing with the figure of Moshe. Includes 6 sections and 18 poems. The book influenced generations of poets after him, and researchers see it as the first of the new Hebrew Literature. The German poet Friedrich Gottlieb Klopstock published his “Messiade” between 1748-1773 and Naftali Hertz published his “Moseide” in opposition, describing the greatness of Moses, and his humanism. They also contain psychological ideas, and the quest for political and spiritual redemption for the Jewish people. His work made a great impression, and was translated into French and German. At the top of sections 1 and 2 are wonderful engraved images of Moshe. At the top of the third section appears an engraving of the author. The book was printed on thick, quality paper. Stamp of ownership. Original binding is partially disconnected. [11], [1], 40, [2]; [7], 56, [3]; [10], 60, [5]; [13], 62, [11]; [8], 64, [12]; [7], 68, [1] page. 20cm. Generally very good condition.
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