£1,200
FIRST EDITION, 8vo, pp. [612] + engraved frontispiece. Contemporary speckled calf, spine divided by raised bands between gilt rolls, red morocco label, central gilt tool to other compartments, edges sprinkled red. A little foxing, small edge tear to one leaf. Binding rubbed, spine ends worn, joints cracking but sound, front pastedown abraded from bookplate removal.
A household manual covering everything from basic recipes, to cures for diseases, to animal husbandry, written by lexicographer Nathan Bailey (c.1691-1742), whose work was an influence on Samuel Johnson. There are substantial entries on brewing and fermenting, raising and preparing chicken, suggestions for abortifacients, cheese making (Cheshire, Gloustershire, cheddar, Stilton, and more), 'catchup that will keep good 20 years', and mince pies, among much else.
