Troy, New York: Pafraets Book Company, 1903. The Connoisseurs' Edition. One of 150 numbered sets. Leaves measuring 150 x 235 mm, with the set together occupying 66 cm (26 in) of shelf space. A Fine set. Half red morocco over marbled boards. Gilt spine in six compartments with raised bands. Top edge gilt. Bookplates of Robert Watchorn to upper pastedowns and bookplates of William N. Johnson to upper free endpapers. Color frontispiece in each volume. First volume with some offsetting to title-page, otherwise a very bright and clean set throughout.

Of course best known his A Dictionary of the English Language (1755), “the most amazing, enduring and endearing one-man feat in the field of lexicography” (PMM), Johnson is one of the most accomplished and influential figures in the history of English literature. Along with the Dictionary, he also authored biographies, essays, and poetry, which are here compiled in an extremely attractive set that captures the breadth of his literary and critical output. Fine (Item #7814)