Universal Technological Dictionary - 1823

London: printed for Baldwin, Cradock, and Joy, by C. Baldwin,, 1823. First edition, in an attractive period binding. This dictionary of scientific and artistic terms proved popular and went through numerous editions. One contemporary reviewer noted it was "printed in a very handsome manner, and will be comprised in two vols quarto, uniform with Dr Johnson's Dictionary of the English Language, to which it may be considered as an essential companion". The beautifully engraved plates depict a wide variety of subjects, for example astronomy, zoology, biology, music, militia, and architecture. The author, George Crabb (1778-1851), was a lawyer who produced a number of encyclopaedic works of reference, including the world's oldest synonymy, Dictionary of English Synonymes (1816). Two volumes, quarto (268 x 205 mm). Contemporary half calf, spines lettered in gilt, raised bands decorated in gilt, first and final compartments with blind floral frame enclosing central gilt device, blind quadruple fillet ruling sides and corners, marbled sides, endpapers, and edges. With 60 engraved plates, further illustrations in the text. Bindings slightly rubbed and edge-worn, contents generally clean, plate captions occasionally shaved by binder. A smart set. Durham County Advertiser, 6 April 1822.