The Rothschild Miscellany
Northern Italy, cs. 1460-1480
Original at the Israel Museum, Jerusalem
This elegant and lavish manuscript contains 37 religious and secular works, including a prayer book for the entire year, customs and halakha guides, and historical, philosophical, and moral treatises. The texts were copied by different scribes and richly illustrated in Italian Renaissance Style. The illustrations, decorated with colors, gold, and silver – present the reality of contemporary Jewish life and customs, along with depictions of animals and plants.
The Miscellany belonged to the Rothschild family since the second half of the 20th century. It was stolen during World War II yet was returned to the family after turning up for sale in New York. In 1957 it was given as a gift to the Israel Museum, Jerusalem.
