L’Ancienne Alsace a Table.

GERARD, Charles.

$950.00

Item Number: 96166

Paris: Berger-Levrault et Cie, 1877.

Scarce second edition of Charles Gerard’s authoritative work on the culinary traditions of the former region of Alsace. Octavo, original wrappers as issued, advertisements to the rear panel. In very good condition. Housed in a custom velvet-lined half morocco clamshell box.

Gerard's L'Ancienne Alsace a Table is a foremost example of the late nineteenth century French approach to writing about gastronomy. Gastronomy has historically been a primary factor in defining French regional and national identity, and at the turn of the 20th century, accounts of regional recipes, products, manners and customs penned by local dignitaries became a competitive practice. L'Ancienne Alsace a Table includes a study of the archaeology, cuisine, traditions, and 'art of the table' of the former region of Alscace.