Cookbooks are full of food but also extraordinary illustrations
Across a thousand years of manuscripts and over five hundred years of publishing, English recipe books have reflected the eating habits of Kings and courtiers, the merchant classes, inn-keepers and restaurant owners, as well as home cooks.
Cookbooks are full of extraordinary food but also extraordinary illustrations from medieval illuminated manuscripts, via the engravings of the eighteenth century and the colour lithographs of Mrs. Beeton, to the high-end life-style images of the modern TV cook.
THE ARTS SOCIETY ACCREDITED LECTURER
Dr Peter Ross
Peter has a History of Art degree, an MA in London history, a PhD in the cultural history of an English Criminal, and qualifications in the teaching of adults. Currently Principal Librarian at Guildhall Library, he has for 20 years lectured on a broad range of topics including the history of English books, portraiture, and London history. Peter has appeared on TV and radio as a consultant on the 18th century criminal Jack Sheppard and on the history of English food. His most recent publication, The Curious Cookbook, was published by the British Library.
OTHER EVENTS
Society
Mr David Winpenny
21 Jan 2026 - 10:30
Online Event
An introduction to the techniques of making stained glass.
Society
Mr Justin Reay
18 Feb 2026 - 10:30
Online Event
The paintings of everyday life that show glimpses of intricate craftwork and a range of Art Nouveau and English Arts and Crafts motifs.