Item #1968 A Dictionary of the English Language: In Which the Words are deduced from their Originals, Explained in their Different Meanings, and Authorized by the Names of the Writers in whose Works they are found. Abstracted from the Folio Edition by the Author. Samuel Johnson.
A Dictionary of the English Language: In Which the Words are deduced from their Originals, Explained in their Different Meanings, and Authorized by the Names of the Writers in whose Works they are found. Abstracted from the Folio Edition by the Author
A Dictionary of the English Language: In Which the Words are deduced from their Originals, Explained in their Different Meanings, and Authorized by the Names of the Writers in whose Works they are found. Abstracted from the Folio Edition by the Author
A Dictionary of the English Language: In Which the Words are deduced from their Originals, Explained in their Different Meanings, and Authorized by the Names of the Writers in whose Works they are found. Abstracted from the Folio Edition by the Author
Johnson's Dictionary, from the Library at Blenheim, Ancestral Home of Winston S. Churchill

A Dictionary of the English Language: In Which the Words are deduced from their Originals, Explained in their Different Meanings, and Authorized by the Names of the Writers in whose Works they are found. Abstracted from the Folio Edition by the Author

London: W. Strahan, J. F. and C. Rivington, L. Davis et al, 1783. Seventh Edition, corrected by the Author. Full leather. Octavos.

Johnson's Dictionary, the definitive 18th century lexicon, shaped English letters and remains a cornerstone of linguistic history. This 1783 Seventh Edition--corrected by Johnson himself--was the last lifetime revision and appeared the year before his death. This practical octavo edition was the result of Johnson's own condensation of the monumental folio volumes for broader reach while maintaining its integrity and authority.

This present set has an interesting provenance documented in an inscription in both volumes recording its purchase in November 1825 "...from the Library of his Grace the Duke of Marlborough." In 1825 that title belonged to George Spencer-Churchill, 5th Duke of Marlborough, and great-great-grandfather of Winston S. Churchill.

A handsome set of Johnson's landmark work, once housed in the Marlborough library.

Two volumes bound in full leather over boards with spines titled in gilt. Re-backed with leather retaining original boards and endpapers. Edge rubs and wear to boards, light toning inside. Bindings sound. Very good to near fine overall.

Item #1968

Sold

Ask a Question Add to Wish List
See all items in History & Politics
See all items by