Restoration

In order to ensure the conservation and useability of the library collection, bookbinding techniques can repair physical damage and damage caused through ageing. However, in some individual cases, only 
restoration by a specialist can help. 

Such a work in need of restoration owened by the Mitte Musem was a classic of the so-called “Hausvater-Literatur” from the early 18th 
century. These publications included advice on housekeeping, wellbeing of people and livestock and the utilization of livestock as well as 
economic viability. 

A woman who lived in the Wedding district on Ravenéstraße donated the book to the former local history archive Wedding on 19 December 1955. A detailed documentation of the restoration process can be 
viewed at the Mitte Museum. 

Book title (in early standard German) 

“Wise housefather, judicious housemother, perfect country medic as well as highly experienced horse and livestock doctor / coupled with a clear and knowing grip / The art of housekeeping To be learned 
within 24 hours, also that by saving high costs, such nourishment can be happily continued, diseases can be prevented, also with as little as Thl. 365 (short for thaler) annually with a clear conscience and without disgraceful usury could reach a profit of Thl. 1000.  Added to this is the secret hunter’s cabinet of the honourable huntsman, as well as several useful and necessary legal and other forms …” 

Author / Date: 

Becher, Johann Joachim: Leipzig: Friedrich Groschuff, approx. 1734.

Foliation: approx. 1200 pages 

Technique: Fully leather-bound