Books

London: printed for Longman, Rees [et al.], 1818. First edition, first issue, of the first revision of Johnson's Dictionary, 5 volumes, 4to, engraved portrait of Johnson by Hollar after Reynolds, text in double column; full contemporary polished tan calf, black morocco labels on gilt-decorated spines; slight cracking at spine ends, some scuffing to a couple of the boards, and the joints, while without gaps, are becoming tender; a very good, attractive set, with all the half-titles present (see below). Early owner's signature of William Williams on title pages. The first (5-volume) issue is far scarcer than the 4-volume issue of the same year. In it, volume 5, beginning with the letter T, contains the addition of a drop title at the top of leaf B1. B1 here corresponds to 6L3 in the 4-volume issue where leaf 6L3 is signed "Vol. IV 6L3 - Vol. V. B." On the title pages of the 5-volume version is the statement "In Five Volumes," as opposed to "In Four Volumes" in the 4-volume issue.…

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.