Porach Mateh Aaron. First Edition. Amsterdam 1703. Legendary illustrated title pages.

Halachic responsa by R. Aaron Ha’Kohen Prachya, Chief Rabbi of Salonika from 1689 until his passing in 1697.
Illustrated title pages for both parts with illustrations of Aaron Ha’Kohen and symbols of priesthood as a hint to the name of the author, who was descended from a distinguished rabbinical family of Kohanim.
These two title pages have become known as some of the most beautiful title pages in the history of the printed Hebrew book and many researchers have studied them in great depth. It depicts various illustrations of Kohanim in full priestly vestments, Kohanim washing their hands, and an Oron Ha’Kodesh. At the bottom of the page is a depiction of the author holding the Luchos, turning towards the sea, a hint to the port city, Salonika, where he served as Rav.
Vinograd Amsterdam 760. Mendes Coutinho press. [3], 249; [3], 168 leaves. 31 cm. Good condition. Stains, wear on the margins and some minor worming on a few pages slightly effecting a few words. Some slight wear to title pages. Antique wooden binding (loose).
With signatures of R. Wolf Leib Moihaver, distinguished talmid of the Boruch Ta’am and Rav in Ir-Chodosh.
With bookplate of R. Y.Y Weinberg Rosh Yeshiva of Ner Yisroel Baltimore.
Opening bid $300