Books

London: Printed by W. Strahan for J. & P. Knapton, [et al.], 1755. First Edition. Two vols. in full calf. Very Good. Two volumes. Stout folio. Title pages printed in red and black. Bound in modern full calf with raised bands and brown morocco labels on spines. A few minor marginal tears with subtle, expert repairs. Text generally quite clean. First edition of Johnson's landmark dictionary bound in stately period-style full ornate calf gilt. A writing pen has been place in the foreground of one of the photos to indicate size of the folio volumes. Johnson's achievement introduced principles of lexicography that had been accepted in continental Europe, but remained uncodified in mid-18th century England. In sum, he gave us the King's English. The catalog to the exhibit Printing and the Mind of Man reveals, "Johnson's dictionary to be "the most amazing, enduring, and endearing one-man performance in the filed of lexicography." Further, "Johnson's lucid and often idiosyncratic…

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.

First editions can be determined by the presence of certain misprints, as Johnson's Dictionary underwent numerous small alterations as later editions were printed. The first edition is also spread over two large, heavy volumes.