Shtar Chatzi Chelek Zachar – Amsterdam, 1803

Shtar Chatzi Chelek Zachar [document bequeathing half half of the male share to the daughter]. Amsterdam, [c. 1800].
Printed document in eloquent Ashkenazi cursive script, with blank spaces for filling in in handwriting. At head of leaf headings in square letters and symbol of Ashkenzai congregation of Amsterdam [letters on edges of Star of David: C, A, A [congregation of Ashkenazim in Amsterdam].
Filled in in handwriting for Ms. Rechala daughter of Rabbi Eliezer Cohen, granting her daughter, Mamala, wife of Rabbi Kalman Gashler, inheritance rights. Amsterdam, [1803].
Signature “Moshe son of Rabbi Uri Feivel, cantor and loyal assistant of community of Amsterdam” and additional signature. Fingerprint signature of Ms. Rechala along with authorization of abovementioned signatories.
“Shtar Chatzi Zachar” written according to an ancient religious ruling for the purpose of ensuring that in due course the daughter is bequeathed her share together with her brothers, despite the fact that according to Jewish law a daughter does not receive an inheritance from her parents when there are sons. In most cases, the bill is written by the father of the bride as part of the dowry which he provides in honor of her marriage, whereby she is granted half the inheritance rights of her brothers. In this particular case the writer is, in fact, the mother, who was apparently widowed.
32 cm. leaf. Good condition, stains and wear. Bound in new binding.