FLOYER, John (1649-1734). Pharmako-Basanos [in Greek]: or, the Touch-stone of Medicines. Discovering the Vertues of Vegetables, Minerals, and Animals, by their Tastes and Smells. London: printed by W.D. for Michael Johnson, Bookseller in Lichfield: And are to be Sold by R. Clavel, and S. Smith; at the Peacock and Feathers in St. Paul’s Church-Yard, 1687-1690.

First edition of Floyer’s first publication, a work on the medical properties of plants, minerals, and animal products, William Constable’s copy. The various specimens are classified according to their taste and smell, with recipes for their preparation and notes on the diseases for which they may be prescribed. The author, John Floyer, was a Lichfield physician noted for his treatise on the importance of accurate pulse measurements and for his most famous patient, Dr Samuel Johnson. Floyer also "produced some of the first reports made in English concerning Chinese pulse lore and acupuncture, news of which had recently been conveyed to the west by Jesuit missionaries" (ODNB). Wing F1388 (variant imprint).

Two volumes, octavo (199 x 114mm). Errata and ad leaf bound in the middle of the "To the Reader" address in vol. 1. General title in vol. 1 and part titles in each volume (a few leaves with margins dustsoiled, a few water stains). Contemporary English speckled calf, paneled in blind, edges speckled red, morocco title labels on each spine, some gatherings at end of vol. 2 partially unopened. Provenance: William Constable, 1721-1791, Fellow of the Royal Society and Society of Antiquaries (engraved bookplate) – Hugh Selbourne, 1906-1973, Manchester physician and book collector (small stamp on verso of title).