A Dictionary of the English Language: in Which the Words Are Deduced from Their Originals, and Illustrated in Their Different Significations, by Examples from the Best Writer. To Which Are Prefixed, A History of the Language, and An English Grammar [with] [ 3 vols, Folio Society, limited edition, complete set, 2006 ]

Johnson, S. ; Mullan, J. ; The Folio Society.

Published by Folio Society, London, limited facsimile edition (2 vols) and accompanying booklet, 2006, 2006

About this Item

Limited edition of 1000 numbered copies. 2 volume facsimile: half speckled calf with hand-marbled paper boards and edges by Ann Muir, 42 cm, booklet: stapled printed wrappers, 25 cm, Facsimile: 1160 + 1161-2650 pp, booklet 11 pp. A facsimile reproduction of the first edition, splendidly produced and presented in a robust buckram-bound box with scalloped edges and volume divider. From the publisher's description: "Dr Johnson's Dictionary has become part of the lexicon of Western culture.Johnson's definitions are sometimes personal, revealing his prejudices and enthusiasms. His conservative politics and sincere High Church religious affiliation alongside his half-teasing, half-sincere strictures on Scotland form the basis for the famous definitions for oats, Tory and Whig." On the production of the facsimile: "Ann Muir, who runs a hand-marbling workshop, has created the marbling for the edges and the front and back boards. No mistakes can be made when marbling page edges, since any slip ruins the entire book block. After each edge or sheet of paper has been rolled, the tray must be cleared and new paints floated. The calf leather used for the binding is treated with a process which was customary in Dr Johnson's time. The mottled finish involves hand-washing the skins repeatedly in paste, salts of tartar, glare and copperas. The skins are sourced from Graham Wright Leather, a family-run business since 1929 in Northampton - the centre of the leather trade in Johnson's time. The books are bound at the small craft bindery of Smith Settle, where Ken Smith and his team of craftsmen sew the sheets and make the cases, including creating the raised leather bands and hand-blocking the spine, cover and separate leather labels in gold." Accompanying the 2-volume facsimile,as issued, is a booklet conrtaining John Mullan's 'Johnson s dictionary, the making of the great book of English. with extracts from the dictionary." Set No. 303. A Fine set in Fine slipcase. Seller Inventory # ABE-59431

Bibliographic Details

Title: A Dictionary of the English Language: in ...

Publisher: Folio Society, London, limited facsimile edition (2 vols) and accompanying booklet, 2006

Publication Date: 2006

Binding: Hardcover

Edition: 1st Edition