Lot 031: The Housekeeper's Instructor Or Universal Family Cook by Jacob Christopher 1811
Estimate: $113 - $225 AUD. Starting bid: $30 AUD.
Description
Published in 1811, Jacob Christopher's 'The Housekeeper's Instructor Or Universal Family Cook' stands as a fascinating document of domestic life and culinary practice during the Georgian era. This comprehensive guide was designed to equip the 19th-century homemaker with the essential knowledge needed to manage a bustling household. Such works were indispensable at a time when self-sufficiency and meticulous household management were paramount. It offers a direct portal into the daily routines, culinary expectations, and domestic challenges faced by families over two centuries ago, reflecting the social and economic conditions of the period. The Universal Family Cook: This section would have provided an extensive collection of recipes, covering everything from simple, everyday meals to more elaborate dishes suitable for entertaining. It offers insights into the ingredients, cooking methods, and flavour profiles that defined early 19th-century British cuisine. The Housekeeper's Instructor: Beyond the kitchen, the book likely delved into the broader responsibilities of a housekeeper. This could include guidance on household organisation, servant management, budgeting, cleaning, and general domestic economy, providing a blueprint for the efficient running of a home. As a primary source, this volume is not merely a collection of recipes; it is a cultural artefact, offering invaluable insights into social history, culinary evolution, and the role of women in the domestic sphere of early 19th-century Britain. Its age and practical nature make it a captivating piece for collectors of rare cookbooks and historical domestic manuals. Item Specifics Format: Hardcover Condition: Acceptable Publisher: SchnebbeloeI Stratford Year: 1811
Condition Report
Sold as described — refer to photographs.
Specifications
| Category | Books |
|---|---|
| Lot Reference | LOT-031 |
| Estimate (AUD) | $113 - $225 |
| Buyer's Premium | 20% |