The Life of Samuel Johnson Comprehending an Account of his Studies, and Numerous Works, James Boswell, In Four Volumes, Cadell & Davies, 1816

James Boswell’s The Life of Samuel Johnson remains one of the most celebrated biographies in the English language. First published in 1791, this expansive account chronicles the life, conversations, letters, and literary achievements of Dr. Samuel Johnson, the eminent lexicographer, essayist, and towering figure of 18th-century British literature. This is the eighth edition, published in 1816 by T. Cadell and W. Davies, and revised and expanded to four volumes. It presents a rich portrayal of Johnson’s friendships, writings, and influence, along with valuable insights into the literary society of his time. Commonly referred to as Boswell’s Life of Johnson, the work offers both an intimate character study and a sweeping cultural history of Georgian Britain.

The Life of Samuel Johnson, LL.D. Comprehending an account of his studies and numerous works in chronological order ; a series of his epistolary correspondence and conversations with many eminent persons ; and various original pieces of his composition, never before published ; the whole exhibiting a view of literature and literary men in Great-Britain for nearly half a century during which he flourished. By James Boswell, Esq. The Eighth Edition, Revised and Augmented. In Four Volumes. 

Printed for T. Cadell and W. Davies, London, 1816. Eighth Edition.

A good set of 4 contemporary full polished calf leather hardbacks, with gilt decoration to spine with black morocco title labels (label missing on Volume 4). Boards with rubbing and wear. Spines are more heavily worn, with creases and losses to the leather in places, particularly at head and tail. Outer joints are rubbed, and front inner hinges are weak, with front cover binding fragile, but still holding.

Text pages are actually very good throughout. Bright and clean with some mild age toning. Bookplate of 'Murray' to first pastedown and previous owner's signature to title.

An imperfect, but very usable early nineteenth century set.

Text in English. 

Vol. 1; (1) Half Title + (1) Frontispiece + (1) Title + xxxvii + (1) + (1) Fold-out Plate + 481pp; 

Vol. 2; (1) Half Title + (1) Title + 496pp; 

Vol. 3; (1) Half Title + (1) Title + 483pp; 

Vol. 4; (1) Half Title + (1) Title +530pp (includes Index); 

Dimensions: Each volume approx 220mm high x 138mm wide x 37mm deep.

Weight: Approximately 2.8kg (the set of 4 - unpacked).