A Dictionary of the English Language

Samuel Johnson

Published by J. F. and C. Rivington, L. Davis, T. Payne et al., London, 1785

About this Item

An exceptionally attractive example of the two volume sixth edition of Samuel Johnson's important and influential 'Dictionary of the English Language'. The sixth edition of this important work, and notably the first edition to carry Dr. Johnson's portrait. Issued following Johnson's death in 1784, this is also the last edition to be edited by Johnson himself, and is also the first authorized quarto edition, preceded by a pirate Dublin edition of the previous year.Illustrated with a frontispiece portrait of Johnson, dated August 21st. 1786, as called for.Lacking the half title to volume I. No half title was issued for volume II.ESTC reference no. T116655[a2]-b4 c-h2 i-k4 g-h4 B-4F4 4N-6X4; [A]1 B-3Y4 3Z2 A-3Y4 3Z2. Collated, complete.With the bookplate of Rev. John Abbifs to front pastedowns.First published in 1755, Johnson took around seven years to complete this dictionary, and worked on it single-handedly. It is among the most influential dictionaries in the history of the English language. In marbled calf bindings. Externally, excellent, with light rubbing to back strip heads and tails and joint heads and tails. Rubbing to centre of boards. Head of front joint of volume II starting, but firmly held. Rear hinge of volume I strained, with board firmly held. Bookplates to front pastedowns. Internally, firmly bound. Pages lightly age toned, with the odd handling mark, and instances of spotting to page perimeters. Very Good.

Seller Inventory # 974F34

Bibliographic Details

• Title: A Dictionary of the English Language
• Publisher: J. F. and C. Rivington, L. Davis, T. Payne et al., London
• Publication Date: 1785
• Binding: Leather
• Illustrator: Not Stated
• Condition: Very Good
• Book Type: book