Handwritten Postcard of Historical Importance from the Minchas Elazar of Munkacs, Munkacs 1902

Handwritten Postcard of Historical Importance from the Minchas Elazar of Munkacs, Munkacs 1902

A handwritten postcard by R. Chaim Elazar Spira of Munkacs (1872-1937), written in 1902 upon the publication of his monumental responsa work “Minchas Elazar”. In this letter, written to a wealthy individual named Jacob Strauss of Frankfurt, he writes: “...I am honored to present to you my work ‘Minchas Elazar’, hopefully you’ll like it”. He then continues to say that because there is no set price for the work, he should send whatever he deems it worth. A truly fascinating letter documenting a monumental occasion for the Munkacser Rav. 

He concludes with a heartfelt blessing: “May Hashem grant you with success and blessing in all your endeavors”, and signs “from one who honors and respects you, Chaim Elazar Spira”. 

This letter is of particular historic significance, in which the Minchas Elazar celebrates the printing of his monumental work, by which he is known far and wide. It is dated 29 May 1902, presumably several weeks after the work had been printed. He was all but 30 years of age when he wrote this letter, which is considerably early when comparing other letters seen at auction which were written by him.

 

The receiver of the letter added his own response to the Minchas Elazar at the bottom of the postcard, promising to send payment for the Sefer. It is unclear if his response actually reached the Minchas Elazar in Munkacs. 

[1] postcard, approx. 6 handwritten lines, written entirely in the hand of the Minchas Elazar with his personal autograph and stamp.