We thought our engraved copy of The Gates of Prayer was special, but check out this illuminated manuscript from Italy, circa 1460, featuring poems and prayers. This rare gem is part of a collection from 19th century banker and philanthropist Moses Montefiore’s library slated to be up on the block at Sotheby’s next week; all profits will go towards Jewish education in the UK. (The history of the prominent Montefiore family is fascinating; ol’ Moses was knighted by Queen Victoria and went by the title “Sir.”)
Also up for sale is a manuscript by famous Kabbalist Abraham ben Samuel Abulafia from around the late 14th century decoding the meanings of the 72 names of God and containing “precise instructions for achieving mystical meditation.”
Wonder if Madonna and her band of merry Kabbalahsters will be front and center? Few people have the money to acquire such spiritual treasures; we can only hope peons like us will be able to see them in a museum someday.