FRANÇOIS (Gérard).

Ɵ The first three books of health. Paris, Jean Richer, 1583. In-16, olive morocco, triple gilt fillet, ornate spine, interior roulette, gilt edges (18th century binding). Rare first edition of this medical treatise in the form of a poem, offering precious principles of hygiene, among which the unreserved prescription for diet. The author expresses, moreover, his hostility towards bloodletting and purgations and speaks out against any treatment using astrology, a practice very much in force at the time. Gérard François was one of Henri IV's physicians; he is also the author of another poem: La Maladie du grand corps de la France (1595). From the library of Doctor Bernard Jean (1992, n°78). A poorly sewn copy, alternately short of inner or outer margin. Edges and some corners restored to the first two quires. A restored spine. Viollet-le-Duc, t. I, p. 267. - Diane Barbier-Mueller, Inventaire..., n°358.