Description
1917 edition. Hardcover has some minor wear along the sides, scuffs and marks. No dust jacket. Spine has some wear on the top and bottom. Pages have some foxing but are clean and the binding is secure.
This early 20th century instructional manual, “What every masseuse should know” by Vera Waddington, offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolving field of massage therapy. Published in 1917, during a period when the practice was gaining mainstream acceptance, this volume stands as a pioneering work that helped establish standards and techniques. Waddington’s expertise as a masseuse and instructor shines through, providing detailed guidance on joint movements and comfortable grasps. Beyond its practical value, the book holds significance as a historical artifact, reflecting societal attitudes and the professionalization of a once-stigmatized occupation. For collectors, this well-preserved copy represents a rare opportunity to own an influential early massage therapy text, bearing the patina of age yet remaining eminently readable. Readers with an interest in the history of alternative medicine or the shifting cultural perceptions of bodywork will find this volume a captivating and insightful read.
