PROFESSOR JERRY THOMAS (JEREMIAH P. THOMAS) (1830-1885) THE BON VIVANT’S COMPANION OR HOW TO MIX DRINKS.

New York & London, Alfred A. Knopf Inc., 1929. Introduction by Herbert Asbury. 169 pp. illustrated hardcover, frontispiece featuring a portrait of Professor Thomas preparing a Blue Blazer, numerous black-and-white plates. 22.5 x 15.2 x 2.5 cm Good condition. Slightly dog-eared corners; worn headband. The illustrations of this book were found in various issues, from 1860 to 1880, of such newspapers as Leslie’s Weekly, Stetson’s Dime Illustrated, The Sporting Times and Theatrical News, The Illustrated News Under the Gaslight and Illustrated American Life. The bartender’s portraits are from Under the Gaslight, which in 1878 and 1879 published a series of sketches and pictures called ‘Our Bartenders.’ Set up, electrotyped, and printed by The Plimpton Press, Norwood, Massachusetts. Paper manufactured by S.D. Warren Co., Boston, Massachusetts.Bound by H.Wolff Estate, New York. Jeremiah P. Thomas, known as ‘Professor’ Jerry Thomas American bartender. His pioneering work in popularising cocktails across the United States as well, he is considered 'the father of American mixology'. In addition to writing the seminal work on cocktails, Bar-Tender’s Guide, Thomas displayed creativity and showmanship while preparing drinks and established the image of the bartender as a creative professional. As such, he was often nicknamed 'Professor' Jerry Thomas. Herbert Asbury (1889–1963) An American journalist and writer best known for his books detailing crime in the 19th and early 20th centuries.