The book contains over 300 recipes contributed by Mrs Wicken, lecturer in charge of ‘domestic economy’ at Sydney Technical College.
The Art of Living in Australia was first published in 1893 and promotes Mediterranean eating and drinking habits for the Australian way of life. The Art of Living in Australia urges the reader to rethink all aspects of their physical life, and embrace Australia’s ‘Mediterranean’ climate. Muskett’s recommendations include ablution, bedroom ventilation, appropriate clothing for hot and cold weather, diet and exercise. Muskett was an early pioneer who trail blazed the transition of eating habits which had grown from the availability of foods during early colonial times – the predominance of meat, bread and butter and tea. He encouraged increased production and consumption of vegetables, fish and seafood, salads and wine.
Philip E. Muskett was an Australian-born medical practitioner and health reformer. Born in Collingwood in 1857, he studied medicine at universities in Melbourne, Glasgow and Edinburgh, and then practiced in London before returning to Melbourne. In 1882 he took up a position at Sydney Hospital, and remained an honorary surgeon there after going into private practice.
