Salonichia – Iuden Messias [Salonika – Messiah of the Jews], engraving from the book Delineatio Provinciarum Pannoniae Et Imperii Turcici in Oriente… Anderer Theil by Johann Christoph Wagner. [Augsburg: Jacob Koppmayer, probably 1687].

Engraving depicting several scenes from the life of Shabtai Tzvi; the scenes are numbered and detailed in a key on p. 51 of the book (not included in the present lot):

1. Messiah.

2. Synagogue.

3. Interior of synagogue.

4. Believers in Shabtai Tzvi honor him as king.

5. Arrest of Shabtai Tzvi by Ottoman soldiers.

The book by Johann Christoph Wagner (ca. 1640-1701), the source of the present engraving, discusses the Ottoman Empire, with historical descriptions of the empire and its wars, mainly against Hungary, of variegated cities and customs, and of the lives of its Jews. Wagner's book relies on studies and newspapers, but also on his own notes during his visits to the Orient.

13.5X23.5 cm (two leaves pasted together). Good condition. Stains, including long, narrow stain to center as a result of oxidation of glue. Light creases. Tear to top, not affecting engraving.

Provenance: Collection of Mozes Heiman Gans.