Birds’ Head Haggadah, written and illustrated in 13th century Germany. Magnificent facsimile, with a volume of introductions and research articles. Numbered copy. Published by Tarshish in Jerusalem. Printed in Vienna 1965. 2 volumes. 28 cm.
The Birds’ Head Haggadah is the earliest illuminated haggadah preserved in its entirety. It includes Biblical and midrashic illustrations, text illustrations and customs, and pictures of the future redemption. The Haggadah’s name is taken from the illustrated human figures that each has a long-beaked bird’s head. There is no definitive explanation for the use of the bird’s head, though it is apparently connected to the Biblical prohibition against making an idol or picture.
Magnificent facsimile printed under the guidance of M. Spitzer of Tarshish publishing. Number 373 of 600 copies. Deluxe format. Two volumes within an original cardboard slipcase.
Excellent condition.