Cook-Book Note-Book by Magda Joicey / Edward Bawden first edition 1946
JOICEY, Magda; Edward BAWDEN [Illus.]
Cook-Book Note-Book
London: Westhouse, 1946
8vo., dark cream cloth decorated in red to upper board, and lettered as such along spine; in the Bawden illustrated dust jacket (8s. 6d. net); pp. [viii], 9-160; with title vignette and full-page line drawings at each chapter heading; a little browned along spine, spotted to edges and prelims; a very good copy in the fragile dust jacket which is evenly browned and shelf-worn, darkened along spine with some rubbing and creasing, particularly to head; reinforced with tape to verso.
First edition of this post-war cookbook, with notes provided by the nutritionist (not author!) Angela Carter.
An interesting collaboration between three accomplished artists in the fields of cooking and illustration. Bawden provides 11 charming illustrations in a rather surrealist manner. The artist had previously collaborated with Ambrose Heath on a series of Good Food cookbooks in the 1930s. James Russell, who co-wrote the series, writes that Bawden “give[s] the jackets a distinctive look that’s also down to earth” with “a sense of humour that transcends time. Bawden could not stop himself from making jokes and playing. This found its way into everything he did”. His effortless style is clearly presented here also, in Joicey’s work.
Included are such delectable treats as Cherry Brandy, Chestnut Balls, Braised Lettuce, Fried Young Rabbit and Cold Ox-Tail jelly.