The Queens Closet Opened Incomparable Secrets in Physick Cyrugery Preserving and Candying etc.

London: Obadiah Blagrave , 1683. Leather. Good Only. 6" by 3.5". None. An extremely scarce, very early edition of this important work regarding the customs and kitchens of the old aristocracy. This work was first published during Cromwell's Commonwealth. With an illustrated frontispiece of Henrietta Maria. ESTC records show that this is the ninth edition overall of this work. ESTC reference no R21760. Collated, Lacking pags 108-180, i.e F-H12 to part I.  Lacking pages 30-53, i.e. L2-L12, of part II. Lacking pages 107-108, i.e S11, of part III. With separate title pages to parts II and III. Though the pagination differs, the register is continuous.  These recipes were purported to be from the kitchen on Henrietta Maria, the wife of King Charles I. It was originally published following the execution of Charles I, and six years after Henrietta Maria fled England during the interregnum. These recipes are 'incomparable secrets in Physick, Chirurgery, Preserving and Candying, &c. Which were presented unto the Queen by the most experienced persons of the times'. Being all three parts in one. 'The Queens Closed Opened'.. 'A Queens Delight or the Art of Preserving'... and 'The Compleat Cook'. When this work was first published, Cromwell had been in charge for six years, and the riches of the old aristocracy were a subject of fascination. These recipes provided insight into the ingredients found in royal and aristocratic pantries and cabinets. Noted recipes include 'The Kings Medicine for the Plague' and 'A salve for the eyes made by Sir Edward Spencer'. A very scarce household work, which forms as an historical source of court life during the Stuart reign. Held in a custome cloth chemise and slipcase. With the contemporary calf boards and spine present. The original binding has failed, leaving this work disbound. Extenally, the original boards and backstrip are rubbed. Gatherings are loose. Pages are bright. Tape repairs to the edges of many pages throughout. Collated, Lacking pags 108-180, i.e F-H12 to part I.  Lacking pages 30-53, i.e. L2-L12, of part II. Lacking pages 107-108, i.e S11, of part III.  Tidemark to the head of most pages, though this is very light and doesnt affect the readability of text. Good Only