Books

London: J.F. And C. Rivington [et al.], 1785. Two volumes, complete. Half calf over marbled boards, raised bands, gilt titles and ruling. Sixth Edition. Full title:"A Dictionary of the English Language in which the words are deduced from their originals, and illustrated in their different significations by examples by the best writers. To which are prefixed, A History of the Language, and An English Grammer." (11 x 9.5 inches). Complete with half-title present, and engraved frontispiece portrait of Johnson after Reynolds. Text in three columns. First authorized quarto edition, preceded by a pirate Dublin edition the previous year. This edition was issued following Johnson's death in 1784 and is the last edition to be edited by Johnson himself and the first to contain his frontis portrait. Stands as one of the greatest acomplishments in lexicography. Text is generally very clean with only minor expected page toning in handsome modern calf leather binding with strong shelf…

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.