*la Cuisinière Bourgeoise*, Followed By *l’office*: Brussels Edition Of 1771

A rare 1771 Brussels edition of this true “best-seller” of 18th-century culinary literature. First published anonymously in 1746, this major work is attributed to Joseph Menon.
A culinary and sociological revolution in the 18th century La Cuisinière Bourgeoise is not merely a cookbook; it is a landmark in the history of taste. Before its publication, culinary treatises were written by men for the tables of the high aristocracy. Joseph Menon authored the very first manual specifically dedicated to women, addressing the lady of the house and her cook directly. Applying the spirit of the Enlightenment to the table, the author advocates for a simplified, healthy, and economical style of cooking, marking a complete break from the excesses and extravagance of court cuisine. The work thus lays the foundations for modern French home cooking. The second part, devoted to L'Office, explores the art of everyday hospitality: making jams, preparing homemade liqueurs (a topic expanded upon in this 1771 edition), planning meals according to the seasons, and techniques for carving meat.

• Full title: La Cuisinière Bourgeoise, followed by L'Office, for the use of all those involved in household expenses. Containing instructions on how to cut, identify, and serve all kinds of meats.
• Edition: New edition, expanded to include several of the newest stews and various recipes for liqueurs.
• Place and publisher: In Brussels, by François Foppens, Printer and Bookseller.
• Date: A.D. 1771. LXXI (1771).
• Format: In-12.

Condition

• Binding: Full period brown sheepskin. Spine with 5 raised bands, richly decorated with floral panels gilded in fine gold; title label in morocco leather. Good overall condition for its age, with a very beautiful antique patina. Slight signs of wear on the covers; caps and corners slightly worn. The spine is particularly well-preserved, and the gilding remains bright.
• Interior: Period paper generally sound. Complete title page featuring the printer’s decorative vignette and the date in Roman numerals. A few signs of handling and natural wear along the margins on the first few pages, without affecting the text, attesting to the charm of its historical use in the kitchen.

A very fine period copy, reflecting daily life and the art of living during the reign of Louis XV.