"Nir David" – Vienna, 1834 – A Magnificent Copy from the Rothschild Collection

Title: Nir David ...

"Nir David" – Vienna, 1834 – A Magnificent Copy from the Rothschild Collection

Title: Nir David – Shirim Al David HaMelech (Songs of David)

Author: Shalom HaKohen

Published: Vienna, 1834 by Anton Schmid

Description:

Nir David is a celebratory collection of poems honoring King David, lauding him as the eternal symbol of strength and wisdom in Jewish tradition. The poems are written by the poet Shalom HaKohen, whose work explores the theme of David’s legacy and the glory of his reign. The book stands as both an artistic tribute and a literary reflection on the life of the beloved King David, whose story continues to inspire generations.

Physical Features:

Portrait of the Author:

The book opens with a rare portrait of the author, which is a notable feature of this edition. The engraved portrait is placed before the title page, adding to the uniqueness and allure of the book.

Size: 16 cm, with a total of 409 pages of high-quality, thick paper, each carefully printed with elegant margins that give the work a dignified and polished appearance.

Binding:

The book is presented in a gorgeous original binding crafted for the Rothschild family. The leather cover features the author’s name embossed in Latin script on the spine, lending an air of distinction and elegance. The binding shows minor signs of wear, which is typical of books of this age but does not detract from the overall beauty and value of the volume.

Condition:

The book is in excellent condition considering its age. The pages are clean and the print remains clear. There are slight imperfections to the binding, but the overall integrity and presentation of the book have been well-maintained. The portrait remains in excellent condition, adding significant historical and aesthetic value to the book.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Shalom HaKohen:

HaKohen was a well-known poet in the early 19th century, and Nir David is one of his most significant works. His poetry often delves into the spiritual and historical aspects of Jewish tradition, and his poems about King David reflect a deep admiration for the biblical figure. King David, known as a military leader, poet, and spiritual icon, was a figure whose legacy inspired many Jewish artists and poets in the 18th and 19th centuries.

The Rothschild Connection:

This particular edition comes from the Rothschild family collection, one of the wealthiest and most influential Jewish families in the world. The Rothschilds were not only known for their banking empire but also for their patronage of the arts and their contributions to Jewish culture. Books and works from their library are highly coveted by collectors, as they represent a historical legacy of Jewish intellectualism and philanthropy.

Conclusion:

This first edition of Nir David is an exceptional work of Jewish poetry, dedicated to one of the most revered figures in Jewish history, King David. The magnificent quality of the printing and the rare portrait of the author make this book an especially valuable collector’s item. Its connection to the Rothschild family further increases its significance, as it was part of one of the most renowned private libraries in the world.

For collectors of rare books, Jewish historical artifacts, or those with an interest in the Rothschild legacy, this highly attractive and well-preserved copy of Nir David is a highly desirable volume that represents both literary and historical significance.