(Courtesy of Genazym) On November 17, Genazym hosted its prestigious Toporowitch Collection Auction, showcasing an extraordinary array of Judaica and sefarim of unparalleled significance.
The centerpiece of the event was the Montefiore Codex, a breathtaking 14th-century Tanach from the Iberian Peninsula, meticulously hand-written on parchment in two volumes. This rare manuscript, once the prized possession of Sir Moses Montefiore and cataloged as the foremost item in his collection, ignited a bidding war before being sold for $1,173,000. Its exceptional value stems from its completeness, accuracy and historical role as a model for the writing of Torah scrolls.
Highlights From the Auction
Among other noteworthy treasures was an exquisite 18th-century illustrated Haggadah, celebrated for its over 50 vibrant, hand-drawn scenes in the classic Moravian style, which captivated collectors and achieved close to a quarter of a million dollars.
Another extraordinary piece was the handwritten manuscript on parchment from 1694, filled with prayers and blessings for the chazan and gabbai, which sold for $93,000. Particularly striking are the haunting depictions accompanying “Keil Malei Rachamim,” memorializing the Jewish victims of the Chmielnicki massacres.
The auction also featured Incunable Nofes Tzufim, one of the earliest sefarim printed by the Hebrew press, which garnered a price of over $200,000.
Personal items of prominent rabbinic figures attracted significant attention, including the beautifully carved personal seal of Rabbi Yeshayahu Bassan, mentor of the Ramchal, which fetched over $148,000, and the seal of Rabbi Shimon Sofer, son of the Chasam Sofer, sold for nearly $40,000.
Bridging Past And Present
Other fascinating items that were sold include a variety of antique silver menorahs, a unique matzah redler, a pure gold Torah pointer, a miniature silver Megillah holder and an unusual vessel used to wash the hands of the kohanim.
Through meticulous research and authentication, Genazym ensures that each artifact tells a compelling story of Jewish life, faith and resilience. Collectors at this auction aren’t merely purchasing rare items—they become custodians of Jewish memory, helping to preserve a legacy that spans centuries.
