Description

John Bellows, a 19th-century polymath, a Quaker, is best known for his contributions to lexicography, particularly his Bellows Dictionaries Printed from type cast Miller and Richard. AEG (all edges gilt) making it special edition book Collectors Notes: The dictionary is printed from a cast specifically created by Miller and Richard. That indicates that the type used was custom-made for this particular work, reflecting their unique contribution to the art of printing. This not only adds to the book’s historical relevance but also signifies its connection to the cutting-edge printing technology and expertise of the era. 2. Reputation for Extremely Small-Size Type: Miller and Richard gained a reputation for their ability to produce very small typefaces, often referred to as "microscripts." These tiny typefaces were often used for specialized purposes, such as printing compact or portable editions of dictionaries, particularly French dictionaries, which required a dense, yet legible layout due to the large volume of words to be included. The fact that the dictionary you’re collecting was printed using their tiny, carefully crafted type means it was likely designed for a specific purpose—such as portability, compactness, or fitting an extensive vocabulary into a small space—making the work not only a technical marvel but also a unique example of 19th-century printing craftsmanship. 3. Artistic and Technological Achievement: For collectors, the use of Miller and Richard's type is a symbol of the precision and innovation in typography during the period. These typefaces were not just small; they were meticulously crafted to maintain readability despite their tiny size. The technical challenge of creating such small, legible text meant that the printing process itself was an artistic and engineering achievement. For collectors, this makes the dictionary not only a literary object but also a collectible piece of typographic history. 4. Collector's Value: The fact that the dictionary was printed using Miller and Richard’s small-size type contributes to its rarity and desirability. Books printed with custom-made type casts are inherently more valuable due to their unique production history. Additionally, the combination of the dictionary’s content with this specialized printing technique elevates the book's collectibility. It reflects both an important piece of intellectual work and a remarkable printing achievement, which increases its appeal to collectors interested in rare books, typographic history, and the technical evolution of printing. 5. Functionality and Aesthetic Appeal: In terms of functionality, the extremely small type was often used to condense large amounts of information into a smaller, more portable format. This feature makes the dictionary not just a valuable collectible but also a practical tool of the time, reflecting the demand for compact, accessible knowledge. Aesthetically, these fine, intricate fonts add an extra layer of charm, giving the book a delicate and refined appearance that collectors will appreciate. In excellent condition. ALL 3 edges are gilded . LIMITED EDITION as described on WiKi: Bellows' pocket French dictionary, when it appeared in 1872 or 1873, was dedicated to Lucien Bonaparte who had himself contributed much to its preparation. Printed on high-quality thin paper, it measured approx 3 x 5 inches. RARE John Bellows' Antique Dictionary printed by Bellow! Comprehensive and Authoritative Bellows' dictionary is comprehensive, often cited for its in-depth definitions, etymologies, and thoroughness in documenting the nuances of the English language. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Bellows' work also highlighted the origins of words, making it valuable not just for practical use but also for historical and linguistic study. Added Value of this particular Dictionary: Linguistic Richness Bellows’ dictionary offers a detailed and precise examination of language, giving a fuller sense of word usage, pronunciation, and meaning during its time. This can be an important resource for scholars, linguists, and historians studying the development of English, as it preserves the vocabulary of a particular historical era, revealing the language's evolution. Historical Context The dictionary serves as a historical artifact, reflecting the social, cultural, and intellectual environment of the late 19th century. It allows readers to glimpse how people understood the world and communicated at that time, shedding light on historical events, beliefs, and societal structures that influenced the development of language. Rarity and Collectibility As an antique, a Bellows dictionary holds considerable collector value. The rarity of these books, particularly in good condition, adds to their allure. Owning such an item connects the collector to a past era of scholarship and language. Educational Resource Bellows’ meticulous approach to definitions, word origins, and linguistic nuances makes his dictionary a valuable resource for educators, students of language, and those passionate about understanding the complexities of the English language. It is a tool for exploring the depth of English vocabulary and the history behind it. Cultural and Intellectual Legacy Bellows' polymathic nature means his dictionary carries a sense of intellectual heritage. His work was part of the broader intellectual movement of the time, contributing to the development of lexicography and serving as a touchstone for later works in the field. By engaging with his dictionary, modern readers can appreciate the scope of intellectual achievement from a bygone era. Feel free to reach out for more photos. All items are Shipped with the insurance and the tracking number.