The Paris Tanach - Robert Estienne Bible, Paris 1546-1548.

The Paris Tanach - Robert Estienne Bible, Paris 1546-1548.

Presented here is one of the most sought after and collectible Hebrew bibles, printed by 16th century French printer Robert Estienne (also known as Stephanus in Latin). Estienne was appointed the printer to the King of France in 1539, and was the exclusive printer of Hebrew on behalf of the King. This Bible is most famously known for its beautiful layout and typography, an uncommon feat in the 16th century. It is considered a “typographic jewel” and is one of the most beautiful Hebrew bibles ever printed. 

A partial set of 12 volumes (of 17). The following volumes are included:

• Bereishis
  

• Shemos

• Vayikra

• Bamidbar

• Devarim

• Shmuel 

• Melachim 

• Yeshayahu 

• Yirmiyahu 

• Trei Asar 

• Daniel

• Ezra

• Nechemia

• Divrei HaYamim 

In very good condition. A small abrasion is seen on pp. 2 of Shemos, affecting text. Final 4 pp. of Nechemia torn with loss of text. Otherwise in excellent condition. Marginal notes in Latin seen in some volumes. 

A small pocket-sized edition, each volume measuring only 10cm. Bound in 18th century full vellum bindings, with the pages painted in an attractive red paint. An attractive set. 

Complete sets are rare; see: Schreiber (Estienne 82) who notes: “This pocket Hebrew Bible has always been regarded as one of the most impressive examples of Hebrew printing of the French Renaissance... The edition is very rare and is seldom found complete and in good condition”. 

Vinograd, Paris 18.