A Handwritten Halakhic Response by the Eminent Rabbi of Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto, the Gaon Rabbi Yeshayahu Bassan.

A Handwritten Halakhic Response by the Eminent Rabbi of Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto, the Gaon Rabbi Yeshayahu Bassan.

A rare letter written entirely in the holy handwriting of the Gaon Rabbi Yeshayahu Bassan, with his signature.

Letters in the handwriting of Rabbi Yeshayahu Bassan are extremely rare.

The letter addresses a question and response regarding inheritance laws. It also engages in intricate legal discussions regarding forced marriage issues and concludes with his signature.

Rabbi Yeshayahu Mordechai Bassan (ca.1673 - 1739) was an Italian rabbi and poet, one of the leading Jewish scholars of Italy in the early 18th century. He was the rabbi of Padua and Reggio Emilia and was the rabbi of the Ramchal (Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto). He is also known for his commentary on the Midrash, a book titled "Sheva Shema'atot." (Seven Teachings). During the controversy that took place in Italy against the Ramchal, Rabbi Yeshayahu Bassan was his main defender. He corresponded with rabbis abroad who were involved in the controversy and was even accused of concealing his disciple.

Rabbi Yeshayahu Bassan wrote numerous responsa to communities throughout Italy, many of which were printed in his responsa collection "Lechem Todah, " which appeared as the second volume of the book "Todat Shalmim" printed by his son Rabbi Yisrael Benjamin Bassan (Venice 1741). Others have been preserved in the books of his contemporary rabbis, such as the halakhic encyclopedia "Pachad Yitzchak" by Rabbi Yitzchak Lampronti, and various other responsa collections.

[1] leaf, written on both sides. Very good condition. High-quality paper.