Two books in one volume:
• Yosifon, Part I, called Keter Kehunah, by Yosef ben Gurion. Amsterdam: Naftali Hertz Levi Rofe and his son-in-law Kosman, [1743]. Yiddish with some Hebrew. First edition of new Yiddish translation.
• Keter Malchut, Part II of Yosifon, called She'erit Yisrael, by R. Menachem Man son of R. Shlomo HaLevi [Amelander]. Amsterdam: Naftali Hertz Levi Rofe and his son-in-law Kosman, [1743]. Yiddish with some Hebrew. First edition.
The two books describe Jewish history from Adam to the destruction of the Temple, and from the destruction of the Temple until the time of the printing of the book. They include detailed descriptions of Jewish history around the world, the Spanish Expulsion, discovery of America, information about the Jews of India and Cochin, Ethiopia and the Ten Lost Tribes, and are accompanied by many woodcut illustrations incorporated within the text.
Early signatures on title page, and inscription on verso of title page dated 1784.
Early leather binding with fine gilt decorations, and a pair of metal clasps – the bottom clasp is engraved with the figure of Moses holding the Tablets of the Law, and the upper clasp features Aaron in priestly vestments.
[4], 244 leaves; [4], 148 leaves. 18 cm. Overall good condition. Creases, stains and wear. Inscriptions. Defects and wear to binding; tears to edges of spine.
Bookplate of Mozes Heiman Gans.
