LÉMERY (Louis). A treatise on food, where we find... Lot 30

LÉMERY (Louis). A treatise on food, where we find in order, and separately, the difference and the choice we must make of each of them in particular; the good and bad effects they can produce, the principles in which they abound; the time, the age and the temperament in which they are suitable. With Remarks at the end of each Chapter, where their nature and use are explained, following the Chymical and Mechanical principles. Second edition, revised, corrected and expanded by the Author. Paris, Pierre Vitte, 1709, in-12, [14]-XXXV-[1]-562 p., full brown calf of the period, decorated nimbus back, title piece (flattened caps, partly split bits). Good copy. Louis Lémery (1677-1743), son of the chemist Nicolas Lémery, was doctor of Louis XV from 1722; he was also a botanist and chemist. In this book, Lémery describes all the foods consumed under Louis XIV and even drugs. The work deals successively with plants, meats and drinks. For each category, he makes an inventory, description and properties of each food and gives advice for their choice and recommendations for their use (Vicaire, 514; Oberlé, Fastes, n° 99).