Torah, Nevi’im and Ktuvim with Ladino Translation – Constantinople, 1739-1745

Torah, Nevi’im and Ktuvim, including a translation into Ladino by Rabbi Avraham Asa, and commentary by Rashi. Constantinople, [1739-1745]. First edition. Six volumes.
In the first volume the verses and translation were printed in square letters with vowel symbols. In the introduction to the second volume the printer relates complaints of the readers regarding the printing of the translation in square letters, and their desire that it will be printed in Rashi letters, and indeed, from this section, the Ladino translation was printed in Rashi letters without vowel symbols. In the third volume, the printer’s complaint appears (in Ladino) on the last page stating that the subscribers are not fulfilling their promise to finance the printing of the book. Furthermore, it is stated that a limited number of copies of the book was printed, for subscribers only.
Six volumes, various sizes and conditions. Some of the volumes are missing pages or title pages, and replaced with photocopies. Notes in oriental handwriting. Stains. Moth damage and tears. Several leaves detached. New bindings (one volume in ancient leather binding).
From Dr. Israel Mehlman’s private collection.