A Dictionary of the English Language :

A$35,000 · Offered by Douglas Stewart Fine Books

Limited edition

in which the words are deduced from their originals, and illustrated in their different significations by examples from the best writers. To which are prefixed, a history of the language, and an English grammar. By Samuel Johnson, A. M. In two volumes . London : Printed by W. Strahan, for J. and P. Knapton ; T. and T. Longman ; C. Hitch and L. Hawes ; A. Millar ; and R. and J. Dodsley, 1755. First edition. Two volumes, folio (430 x 270 mm), in the original matching full calf bindings (boards with an expected amount of rubbing and scuffing), spines in seven compartments with gilt-tooled decoration and volume numbers (moderate wear and some fading to the gilt), and with maroon leather title labels lettered in gilt JOHNSON S DICTIONARY A K (and) L Z ; front pastedowns each with three armorial bookplates belonging to F. W. Brydges Esq., Robert Henry Lee Warner, and William M. Fitzhugh, Jr., respectively; titles printed in red and black; light foxing to the outermost leaves in each volume, otherwise clean and crisp throughout, a fine set with wide margins, in the bookseller s boards. The first edition of Johnson s landmark dictionary the first standard English dictionary, published in an edition of 2,000 copies, around only half of which are estimated to have survived. The immense significance of Johnson s achievement in compiling the Dictionary was recognised even at the time of its publication by such illustrious commentators as Dr. Boswell and Adam Smith. Although it was surpas

• Binding: Hardcover

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