“A MAN SHOULD NOT BE TOO THOUGHTFUL FOR HIS HEALTH WHEN HE IS SATISFYING HIS HUNGER”

JEAFFRESON, John Cordy. A Book about the Table. London: Hurst and Blackett, 1875. Two volumes in one. Thick octavo, publisher's half black cloth gilt, top edge gilt. $350.

Second edition of Jeaffreson’s jocular survey of culinary history.

Although he published nearly three dozen "adequately successful" novels, Jeaffreson made his true mark with a "a series of historical and literary studies… conceived as anecdotal social history. The formula had a wide appeal… [and] all sold well" (DNB), including this treasury of information about food and feasting through the ages. First published 1874. See Bitting, 245. Bookseller's small blindstamp. Old pencil prices. Owner annotation to title page, occasional marginalia.

Text block expertly repaired. Light evidence of label removal to front board. Extremely good condition.