Rare first edition in English of a book of instructions for servants in great houses, with contemporary female ownership. Originally published in French in 1662, the work examines the various roles involved in the feeding of a large household and the putting-on of grand entertainments. It includes a chapter on the decorative folding of napkins, providing instructions for 26 designs. Bitting p.407: ‘The translation is much scarcer than the original’; ESTC R30134.

12mo (45 x 84mm). Woodcut illustrations (some worming in margins and occasionally into printed area, occasional staining, a few minor marginal tears, two quires misbound). Contemporary panelled sheep (rebacked, rubbed). Provenance: Mary Denne (inscription dated 1685 recording gift from her father) – Albert Roux (bookplate on front pastedown).