John Bellows Leather-Bound French–English Pocket Dictionary, Second Edition

A handsome little volume with the character of a well-traveled companion, this French–English and English–French pocket dictionary bears the name of John Bellows and is marked “Second Edition.” Its deep burgundy leather binding is accented with gilt lettering, while softly worn edges speak to years of handling.

Bellows was an English printer and lexicographer whose compact bilingual dictionary brought an extensive language reference into a conveniently portable form. Intended for ready consultation, books such as this belonged to a world of handwritten correspondence, study, and travel between languages.

The bilingual cover gives this piece particular charm, presenting its purpose in both French and English. A surviving leather tab at the fore-edge adds another practical detail to its small, thoughtfully designed binding.

Beautiful tucked into a library vignette, displayed beside a writing box, or given to a lover of France, this volume offers both literary interest and the rich texture of aged leather.

Details

• Author: John Bellows
• Title: Dictionary for the Pocket, French–English and English–French
• Edition: Second edition, stated on cover
• Origin: English publication; exact imprint to be confirmed from title page
• Period: Late 19th century; exact printing date unconfirmed
• Materials: Leather binding, gilt lettering, and paper
• Condition: Visible rubbing and losses to the leather at corners and spine ends.

Measurements: 3" W x 4.5" H x 1" D