Rare: First Edition of The Shulchan Aruch – Even HaEzer, Venice 1565. A Magnificent Copy!

Rare: First Edition of The Shulchan Aruch – Even HaEzer, Venice 1565. A Magnificent Copy!

We are pleased to offer one of the most fundamental Jewish books ever to be printed: The first edition of the Shulchan Aruch – Even HaEzer, which was printed in Venice in 1565, during the lifetime of the Mechaber, R. Yosef Karo. Rarely does an opportunity present itself to be able to purchase such an important work which impacts the daily life of every Jew throughout the world till this very day.  

In his introduction to this work, he explains the reason why he felt compelled to write it, considering he already had published his monumental work ‘Beis Yosef’ on the Tur. He writes that it is important to have such a work so that all the relevant Halachos will be clear to all. Furthermore, he writes that his intention was for the youth and children – to study while they are young so they will remember when they are older. 

Shulchan Aruch was written by The Mechaber during his old age while living in Tzefas. In 1557, Shulchan Aruch was completed, as stated on the final colophon leaf: “This work was completed on Tuesday, 19 Shevat 5317 in Tzefas, which shall speedily be rebuilt”. This was just a few years after completing the Beis Yosef on Even HaEzer, which was printed in 1553. From there, the manuscript was sent to Venice – the printing hub of Hebrew books during the 16th century – where it was eventually printed, as stated on the title page: “The work [of printing] has begun, 12 Nissan 5325 (March 24th 1565) here in Venice”. 

Ever since it was first printed, Shulchan Aruch was accepted and used by all and was printed in hundreds of editions. In fact, even during the lifetime of the Mechaber himself, many new editions were published. As such, this first edition has always been exceedingly scarce and desirable by collectors, as it is undoubtedly the “Crown Jewel” of the Hebrew book. 

A complete magnificent copy, printed on crisp white paper. Also includes the final blank leaf, as it was originally printed over 450 years ago in Venice. To the best of our knowledge, a copy such as this in such remarkable condition has never been offered at auction.

Bound in a magnificent new leather binding.

[1], 79 pp. 

Page size: 23cm.