Books

First published in 1755, this is the last lifetime edition (Johnson died later that year) of one of the most famous books in the English language, the last of the initial sequence of editions in the original folio format. The text is that of the fourth edition, Johnson's only major revision of his text, with the unabridged entries and citations of usage by those Johnson considered the best authors. Two vols, folio (425 x 260 mm). Contemporary black morocco, skilfully rebacked and relined, boards ruled in gilt with a french fillet, fleurons at corners, decorative roll gilt to turn-ins. Title-pages in red and black. Bookplates of Admiral Sir Charles Little (1882-1973). Sides a little scuffed in places, a little spotting and toning towards beginning and end of each volume, small chips at peripheries of initial few leaves of vol. I, an excellent copy. Courtney & Nichol Smith p. 57; PMM 201.

Samuel Johnson's 'A Dictionary of the English Language' is among the most influential dictionaries in the history of the English language. First published on 15 April 1755, the dictionary offered comprehensive definitions and illustrative examples of usage.