This stunning edition of The Housekeeper's Instructor or Universal Family Cook was published by W Lewis. It's the 17th Edition and even though this edition is undated, there is a name written inside dated 1818. The recipes are in eighteenth-century style - brief and with little guidance on the techniques to be applied. There is also little indication of quantities, cooking temperature or cooking time.
The book features a contemporary quarter leather binding with marbled paper boards. The original spine has been positioned over the top of the contemporary spine which is a lovely feature. It's a way to retain original features whilst also making the book readable for generations to come.
It's in very good condition but there is wear and rubbing to the corners and board edges, with some loss to the surface of the paper. The boards show minor marks and there is scuffing to the leather.
Inside, there is a name and date written on one of the preliminary blank pages. The book has contemporary endpapers. The pages show age toning and foxing throughout, with occasional creasing to the pages. There is some wear and tear to the edges of the fold out illustrations. Dimensions approximately 21.3cm x 13.8cm x 3.4cm.
The book will arrive hand wrapped in patterned wallpaper and ribbon.
I use a range of eco friendly, 100% recyclable jiffy bags and boxes, and whenever possible I use brown paper tape. The green bubble wrap is biodegradable and the clear bubble wrap is 100% recyclable. I also reuse boxes when I feel it's appropriate (if the boxes are sturdy enough).G