The Savoy Cocktail Book.
London: Constable & Company, Ltd, 1930 [1931]. First edition, fourth impression (1931). Inscribed by the author on the recto of the front free endpaper: “With the compliments of ‘Booth Gin’.” With the two-page Booth’s Gin advertisement tipped in before the title page, and further Booth’s advertisements after pp. 76 and 148. The section “Additional Cocktails” is printed on pp. 282–283. Publisher’s decorated Art Deco binding. [10] 7–76 [2] 77–148 [2] 286 [2] p. Unrelated presentation and ownership inscriptions to the front free endpaper and to the blank page of the preliminary gin advertisement. Binding with moderate rubbing at the spine and extremities; small areas of surface loss to the spine with scattered abrasions. Corners lightly bumped and rubbed. Front board with minor scuffing and light surface wear; rear board with somewhat heavier rubbing to the metallic finish. Spine ends lightly frayed. Interior generally clean; some staining to the final note pages. Overall in very good condition.
Inscribed copy of the iconic Jazz Age Art Deco cocktail manual, with additional Booth’s Gin advertisement leaves.
A central document of interwar cocktail culture, compiled by Harry Craddock (1876–1963), head barman of the Savoy Hotel’s American Bar. After leaving the United States during Prohibition, Craddock became one of the principal figures of London’s cocktail scene. First issued in 1930 and continuously reprinted thereafter, the work assembles roughly 750 recipes together with brief remarks on the history and social role of mixed drinks.
The present copy is of particular interest for its Booth’s Gin–related presentation inscription. Although not formally signed, the inscription, executed in fountain pen, is consistent in both appearance and execution with recorded examples of Craddock’s handwriting.
The book is equally noted for Gilbert Rumbold’s Art Deco illustrations and the distinctive period binding, which helped establish its Jazz Age visual identity. At the time of publication Booth’s was among the most established London gin houses, and the integrated advertisements suggest circulation within trade or promotional channels; it has also been suggested that Booth’s may have subsidized the publication. The volume includes the wine section with an introduction by Colette (pp. 223–227).
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Price: €5,000.00