Lengthy letter with the Hebrew signature of Rabbi “Yisrael Binyamin son of Rabbi Yeshayahu Bassan ztzuk”l …” Reggio, 1753.
Rabbi Yisrael Binyamin Bassan was born to his mother Yocheved and his father, Chacham Yeshayahu Bassan in 1701 in Padua, Italy. He first studied with his father, Chacham Yeshayahu Bassan, at his study hall in Padua, together with his close friend, Chacham Moshe Chaim Luzzatto. He then studied with his maternal grandfather, Chacham Binyamin HaKohen Vitali, rabbi of Reggio, who gave him rabbinic ordination in 1719, giving him the title “Chaver.” In 1927, he married Letovah, daughter of Chacham Menachem Krakovia of Venice. In honor of his wedding, his friend Chacham Moshe Chaim Luzzatto composed his play Migdal Oz .
Rabbi Yisrael Binyamin Bassan, authored many works, that remain in his hand. He lived to about 90 years old.
[1] double leaf. Ink on paper. 31×21 cm.
Very fine condition.