On offer is an original 1730 edition of The Complete Housewife, or Accomplish’d Gentlewoman’s Companion by Eliza Smith, one of the most important and influential English cookery books ever published. First issued anonymously under the initials “E.S.”, the work became the first cookbook written by a woman to achieve widespread success and was later reprinted extensively in both Britain and Colonial America. Containing more than 500 recipes, it covers cookery, pastry, confectionery, preserving, pickles, creams, jellies, made wines and cordials, providing an exceptional insight into domestic life during the early Georgian period.

Measuring approximately 8 inches by 5 inches, this remarkable volume is approaching 300 years of age. It remains a highly desirable collector’s piece despite seven missing pages, amounting to fourteen printed sides, together with some loose pages. The original stitching is still present although understandably delicate. A rare opportunity to acquire an authentic early edition of one of the foundation works of English culinary history.

Key Features

✅ Authentic 1730 edition of The Complete Housewife

✅ Written by Eliza Smith, originally published under the initials E.S.

✅ Contains over 500 recipes and household instructions

✅ Landmark work in English culinary history and later published in Colonial America

✅ Condition: Seven pages missing comprising fourteen printed sides, some loose pages, original stitching present but delicate, age related wear throughout

✅ Approximately 8 inches by 5 inches

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