The compleat loo

After the remarkably efficient sanitation system developed by the Romans, personal hygiene in Europe took a giant step backward, as primitive chamberpots and privies held sway for centuries. Then in the late 1800s, lavatory technology saw astonishing developments with the invention of the water closet--or WC. Providing a colorful history of the "necessary" from prehistoric drainage ditches to the modern flush toilet, and illustrated with a profusion of b&w photos, line drawings, and cartoons, The Compleat Loo celebrates in grand fashion latrines and lavatories; commodes, garderobes, and public urinals; "heads" on shipboard and facilities on aircraft; and such modern marvels as streamlined automatic public conveniences, the 'Lectrolav, and a device called the Ve Cone Valve, which many people believe will revolutionize plumbing in the same way the silicon chip has changed electronics! 8 1/2" x 8".