Johnson's Dictionary of the English language in miniature

Johnson, Samuel

Published by Printed by C. Whittingham for Longman, Hurst, Rees, and Orme et al., 1805

About this Item

Stated Nineteenth Edition of Johnson's magnificent work of intellect and language, published a half-century after its first appearance in 1755. Rebound in white cloth over boards, gilt lettering and ruling to spine. New endpapers, the result being stiff, sturdy. Extensive penned inscription from former owner, verso of title page, thus leading to shadowing thereof. The iconic black-and-white engraving of Samuel Johnson opposite title page, soiled and toned a bit. Moderately toned of interior, double-column text for ease of reading, and with simple, short entries. Measures 5 3/4" x 3 7/8" wide and tall, respectively. First published as, colloquially, Johnson's Dictionary, it quickly became among the most influential dictionaries in the history of the English language; the story of Johnson's contracting by a group of London booksellers to write and have published, a dictionary, is a long and complicated, fascinating story; he earned, says his Wikipedia entry, "the sum of 1,500 guineas (£1,575), equivalent to about £260,000 in 2024." It took him seven years though he promised he could finish it in three. "He did so single-handedly, with only clerical assistance to copy the illustrative quotations that he had marked in books. Johnson produced several revised editions during his life." "J.H." (the Reverend Joseph Hamilton) provides a two-page advertisement up front and a list of abbreviations, then 276 pp. of double-column text including a chronological table. Most entries are a single line in length.Member, I.O.B.A., C.B.A., and adherent to the highest ethical standards. Additional postage may be required for oversize or especially heavy volumes, and for sets. Seller Inventory # 357205

Bibliographic Details

Title: Johnson's Dictionary of the English language...

Publisher: Printed by C. Whittingham for Longman, Hurst, Rees, and Orme et al.

Publication Date: 1805

Binding: Hardcover

Condition: Good

Edition: Nineteenth Edition.