2004-09
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/31/2004
ARTICLES OF AGREEMENT [proposed] BETWEEN ISAAC LEESER OF THE ONE PART AND THE PORTUGUESE JEWISH CONGREGATION OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA [AND] KAHEL KADOSH MIKVEH ISRAEL [ALSO SPELLED OUT IN HEBREW WORDS] OF THE OTHER PART ENTERED INTO AT CITY OF PHILADELPHIA [with both Hebrew and English dates] 20'TH DAY OF DECEMBER, 1837 are the six lines of heading of this two page agreement entirely penned in the very small, easily recognizable hand of and fully signed by ISAAC LEESER [even with a small paper impressed seal verifying his signature]. 7½ x 9½ on both sides (pages 3 and 4 blank). Sets forth in great detail the terms that Leeser wished to submit to the Syn. Board (as it does not bear their countersignatures); specifically mentions his agreement, length of service and proposed salary that "…the ofference of salary now in dispute between him and the congregation be properly adjusted." The proposal spells out duties he is to perform, from marriages to funerals; two days that he is to be available for worship, etc., for which he is to receive salary of $800 per year "…unless otherwise ordered by a meeting of the congregation…" Showing aging. Few minor nicks on extreme edge of right margin not affecting any wording and a very short tear on one fold. A most rare and significant piece of American Judaica.
Click on a thumbnail above to display a larger image below
Hold down the mouse button and slide side to side to see more thumbnails(if available).
Click above for larger image.