The Gentleman’s Table Guide.

RICKET, Edward; C. Thomas.

$7,500.00

Item Number: 148364

London: H. Born, 1871.

First edition of this guide to cocktails and refined social drinking. Octodecimo, original publisher’s green cloth with gilt titles and tooling, all edges gilt, illustrated with black and white engraved plates, advertisements at rear. In near fine condition, ownership inscription to the front free endpaper. First editions are exceptionally rare.

The Gentleman's Table Guide by Edward Ricket is a historical manual that reflects Victorian-era attitudes toward drinking culture, etiquette, and masculinity. Intended for the refined gentleman, the book provides detailed instructions on the proper preparation and consumption of wines, spirits, and mixed drinks, while also emphasizing moderation and decorum. It serves as both a practical guide and a cultural artifact, illustrating how beverage knowledge and social rituals were intertwined with notions of class, refinement, and gender identity during the 19th century.