Books

London: G. and J. Offor (and others), 1824. Two volumes; large, thick quartos (28cm); early diced calf, recently re-spined in calf gilt to style, with red and black gilt morocco spine labels and new endpapers, all edges marbled; engraved frontispiece; 12;60;1028 + [1],1024pp. Text chiefly printed in triple column. Slight rubbing and wear to boards, mostly at edges; scattered foxing within; collated and complete. A sound, serviceable, and Very Good copy. FLEEMAN 55.4D/27; VANCIL, p. 127. COURTNEY & SMITH p.60. Regarding this monument of scholarship and wit, first published in 1755, little needs be said. Perhaps William Prideaux Courtney expressed the sentiment best: "The time that I have spent in the annotation of the Dictionary – I have done my reading in sips and have spread the pleasure over many days of delight – has been well expended. Every page possesses a joy.

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.