Bidspirit auction | Tochachas Megulah/Corfu Esrogim. Mainz 1876

Tochachas Megulah/Corfu Esrogim. Mainz 1876 - Tochachas Megulah/Corfu Esrogim. Mainz 1876. A severely worded polemic published under the pseudonym “Moshe Rom” by R. Tzvi Hirsch Rabinowitz of Vilna, son of R. Yitzchok Elchonon Spektor of Kovno. According to Jewish Romaniote tradition, Corfu Esrogim have been used for generations, however their export to Ashkenazic communities only began in the late 18th century. Although initially received with skepticism, during and following the Napoleonic wars when Yanova Esrogim were difficult to procure they gained popularity. A great Halachic debate ensued with R. Shlomo Kluger banning them and R. Yosef Shaul Nathanson permitting them. In 1875 the Esrog dealers in Corfu formed a cartel, drastically raising the price. This resulted in R. Yitzchok Elchonon Spektor banning their Esrogim from use until the price was reduced and their Kashrus status clarified. Brill press. 4, 126, 4 pages. 18 cm. Fine condition. Original binding. Front cover detached. With bookplate of R. S.Y. Weinberg Rosh Yeshiva of Ner Yisroel Baltimore. Opening bid $300 See lot 19