[MACBEAN, ALEXANDER]. A Dictionary of Ancient Geography, Explaining the Local Appellations in Sacred, Grecian, and Roman History; Exhibiting the Extent of Kingdoms, and Situations of Cities, &c. and illustrating the Allusions and Epithets in the Greek and Roman Poets. The Whole established by proper Authorities, and designed for the Use of Schools. London: Printed for G. Robinson, in Pater Noster-Row; and T. Cadell, in the Strand, 1773.
Hardcover. First edition. Complete in one volume. Full leather. Octavo (8°) (215 x 130mm), pp. iv, [628] - unpaginated. Signatures: [ ]⁴ A-⁴K⁴ ⁴L². Contemporary polished calf, five raised bands, red morocco lettering-piece, red speckled page edges. English text in double columns. Initial and terminal blanks present. Provenance: Bookplate of Sir John Halkett of Pitfirrane, 4th Bart. (1720 - 1793) to front pastedown, his signature neatly inked to title-page. Condition: GOOD to VERY GOOD. Binding secure with light wear to upper joint and extremities. Textblock remarkably clean and showing just faint tanning and a touch of browning to endpapers. Scarce.
Notes: The first and only edition of an uncommon 18th century dictionary. Alexander Macbean was a Scottish writer and one of the compilers of Dr Samuel Johnson's dictionary (the current book's preface was written by Samuel Johnson). He was a descendant of Clan Macbean, a highland Scottish clan dating back to the 15th century. Dr. Johnson himself wrote about the dictionary: "A work like this has long been wanted: I would willingly flatter myself that the want is now supplied." MacBean was mentored by Samuel Johnson in his career as a lexicographer. Despite the praise Johnson heaped on his work he insisted that MacBean possessed absolutely no life skills. This was borne out in the fact that Macbean struggled with finances his entire life and died penniless, retaining Johnson's respect for his work and his pious nature. Alston, XI.118; Hazen, p. 132; ESTC T31838; Fleeman, J.D. Johnson, 73.6MD.
