Reaches of Heaven. A Story of the Baal Shem Tov. 2 Vols.
New York: Landmark Press, (1980). Limited edition. Hardcover. 204/250. Elephant folio. [8] 47 text pages, half-title, title page, author's note, and colophon and signed limitation page (Vol. 1), and 24 original signed etchings by Ira Moskowitz (single leaves), resting in two matching cloth portfolios with black leather labels with gilt lettering on spine. Limitation page signed by Singer and Moskowitz. Portfolios housed in matching slipcases.
Exquisite publication introducing Singer's 'impressions' of Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov's way of thinking, his spiritual achievements as well as disappointments. "I see Rabbi Israel as a man of deep belief in God and of much doubt in man and his abilities to reach perfection. He was, like all great religious thinkers, a lonely man, both primitive and refined, enchanted by the divine powers and pained by man's suffering, by his bitter struggle and often by his pettiness..." (Isaac Bashevis Singer). Rabbi Yisroel (Israel) ben Eliezer (a.k.a Baal Shem Tov) was a Jewish mystical rabbi, considered to be the founder of Hasidic Judaism. The author's engaging text is accompanied by Ira Moskowitz's captivating artwork. Text hand set in 18 point Bembo, printed by letterpress, Lunenburg, Vermont. Light sunning and minor age wear to slipcases. Label of text volume slightly lifted at part of one of the edges. Portfolios in very good, interior leaves in fine condition. Complete as issued. Good+ to fine condition. Item #55271
Price: $950.00