Machzor for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur - Nussach Sefard, Zhitomir 1866. With Tefillas Zakah.

Machzor for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur - Nussach Sefard, Zhitomir 1866. With Tefillas Zakah.

A complete copy of the Zhitomir Machzor for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, printed by Chaninah Lipa and Yehoshua Heschel Shapiro in Zhitomir in 1866. 

This edition features the prayer services in Nusach Sefard, printed exclusively for use in Chassidic circles. Although Machzorim printed in Zhitomir are not of particular scarcity, editions with the Sefard variant are uncommon and rarely seen at auction. 

Of particular rarity is the additional Tefillas Zakah prayer included at the end of the volume. Authored by R. Avraham Danzig of Vilna and author of ‘Chayei Adam’ in the early 19th century, Tefillas Zakah has since become a standard text incorporated into virtually all editions of the Machzor. Amongst Chasidic circles however, Tefillas Zakah is less known and rarely found in Machzorim of that era. As such, a Chassidic Zhitomir Machzor with this prayer – especially one of Nussach Sefard – is scarce. 

Printed in a larger format than the typical Zhitomir Machzor. Presumably, this edition was meant to be used by the Chazzan. Title in red and black ink. With Judeo-German (Yiddish) translation at bottom portion of each page. Also includes “Tefillah Kodem HaTefillah” from R. Elimelech of Lizhensk, as well as selected portions of the Zohar to be recited prior to the blowing of Shofar, which is not found in most Zhitomir editions. 

To the best of our knowledge, this edition has never appeared at auction. 

Zhitomir imprints, like those of Slavita, have long been favored by Chassidim and their Rebbes, and remain in high demand till today. It is believed that Zhitomir and Slavuta imprints bring blessing into one’s household since they were crafted with utmost Holiness and purity. In addition, they are also well-known for their quality, black letterpress font - an uncommon printing feat in the early 19th century. During their prime, the Shapiro family press was cherished and respected by all, and was undoubtedly one of the leading Jewish printing presses throughout the Russian Empire.

In very good-excellent condition. Light stains to some pages. Page corners lightly worn, typical of 19th century prayer books. Minor repairs to several opening leaves, not affecting text. Title page partly restored at bottom left corner, with minor loss to typographical border. Otherwise very good. Bound in a new, ornate leather binding.

154, 157-160 pp. (mispaginated). Page size: 30cm.