Parma Psalter

Of all medieval Hebrew manuscript Psalters (tehillim), one of the earliest and most important to survive is the masterpiece Ms. Parm. 1870 (Cod. De Rossi 510), the treasure of the Palatina Library in Parma, Italy. This profusely illuminated book of Psalms was written and decorated in about 1280, probably in Emilia in Northern Italy. Its 452 pages contain the biblical text in a clear, large vocalized Hebrew hand. Each psalm is illuminated and numbered, and many are exquisitely illustrated with musical instruments or with scenes described in the text - extraordinary for a Hebrew manuscript of the period, and proof that it was the work of Jews. Only a wealthy patron could have commissioned so lavish and tasteful a manuscript; and the presence of Ibn Ezra's commentary suggests that he was also well educated. Early copies of Abraham Ibn Ezra's great commentary on Psalms are rare, and the one in this manuscript records many wordings not to be found in other versions. A joy to hold, this facsimile will serve as a constant reminder of the rich legacy of medieval Jewish scholarship and artistic patronage.