Description

This rare 1828 Johnson and Walker’s Dictionary of the English Language combines two works by two of the greatest lexicographers in the early 19th century. This collectible antique reference book was published in Boston by Charles Ewer and T. Harrington Carter, in 1828. It is wrapped in authentic full-leather binding and is aged nearly 200 years old. This book is a collector’s treasure, providing not only historical insights but also a tangible connection to the evolution of English lexicography. Owning such an edition offers both a linguistic journey through time and a valuable artifact from the early days of American publishing. This rare and collectible early dictionary combines two cornerstones of English Lexicography by combining the precise definitions of Johnson’s Dictionary with the phonetically respelled pronunciations of John Walker’s Dictionary. This volume has been further enhanced by H.J. Todd and abridged by Alexander Chalmers. This exceptional dictionary offers a comprehensive look into the English language of the early 19th century, and shows some of the first attempts to standardize English spelling, grammar, and vocabulary. Both Samuel Johnson and John Walker were both absolutely instrumental to the shaping of the English language, both largely affecting how it was used and understood. While Samuel Johnson focused on meticulous definitions, John Walker focused on the proper Pronunciation, including a revolutionary Pronunciation Key which made classical names and terms, from Greek, Latin, and Scripture, all more accessible to English speakers. Finding this dictionary in good condition is remarkable, as books from this period often exhibit heavy wear due to the popularity and utility this work. The leather-bound cover has aged gracefully, showcasing a distinguished patina, with the spine intact and the pages remarkably well-preserved for its age. This is a rare antique book is wrapped in the original full-leather binding, featuring gold gilt lettering inside a burgundy leather blocked title on the spine. This finely bound decorative book is an antique collectible, at over 196 years old and has been very well preserved over nearly two centuries. The binding remains intact and the interior remains clean, in a two-column format throughout. The book opens up to beautifully colored marbled endpapers in the front and back of the book, featuring colors of greens, blues, and grays. This book measures approximately 9” tall by 6” wide by 3” thick. It contains a total of 1,185 printed pages inside (XXX + 1,155pp). This collectible 196 year old collectible remains in Very Good antique condition. The binding remains sound and secure. The pages remain solid and intact, with only one of the first blank pages beginning to loosen. The remaining pages are firmly held in place. The original exterior leather has some wear that is consistent with a book of this age, showing some bumping and rubbing around the edges. The interior pages remain in great condition and appear to be clean and free of markings, writing, rips, or tears. The interior also appears to remain free of any significant tanning, soiling, or foxing. This rare volume displays the fine early 19th-century craftsmanship that the period is known for. This is truly a beautiful antiquarian book of historical significance. Thank you so much for visiting our shop and supporting our small business!