1762 Robert Lowth's A Short Introduction to English Grammar | First Edition Era | Original Calf Binding | Armorial Bookplate

A genuine 1762 printing of Robert Lowth's A Short Introduction to English Grammar: With Critical Notes, one of the most influential works in the history of English language study and a cornerstone of eighteenth-century education.

First published during the reign of George III, Lowth's grammar helped shape the teaching and standardization of written English for generations. Its influence extended well beyond the eighteenth century, making it one of the most important grammatical texts of its era.

This copy retains its contemporary calf binding with raised spine bands and gilt spine titling reading "LOWTHS GRAMMAR." Particularly attractive is the engraved armorial bookplate of the Dacre family affixed to the front pastedown. The bookplate features a coronet, quartered shield, heraldic supporters, the motto "Pour Bien Destrer," and is signed "Austin sculp.", providing appealing early ownership provenance and additional interest for collectors of heraldry, genealogy, and book history.

Printed in London by J. Hughs for A. Millar and R. & J. Dodsley of Pall Mall, this volume represents an increasingly scarce survival from the formative period of English linguistic scholarship.

Bibliographic Details

• Title: A Short Introduction to English Grammar: With Critical Notes
• Author: Robert Lowth (1710–1787)
• Published: 1762
• Place of Publication: London
• Printer: J. Hughs
• Publishers: A. Millar; R. & J. Dodsley, Pall Mall
• Binding: Contemporary calf
• Spine: Gilt-lettered "LOWTHS GRAMMAR"
• Language: English

Condition

Good antiquarian condition.

Contemporary calf binding with raised bands and gilt spine titling. Hinges are cracked, but the sewing cords remain sound and the boards remain attached. Moderate rubbing, scuffing, and loss to the marbled paper covering the boards consistent with age and use.

Interior pages are remarkably clean for a mid-eighteenth-century volume, exhibiting light age toning and scattered foxing. Engraved Dacre family armorial bookplate present on the front pastedown.

An attractive, honest, and unrestored example of an important eighteenth-century grammar text.

Why Collect This Copy?

• Published in 1762 during Robert Lowth's lifetime
• Landmark work in the history of English grammar
• Original contemporary calf binding
• Gilt-lettered spine
• Engraved Dacre family armorial bookplate
• Signed "Austin sculp."
• Early ownership provenance
• Over 260 years old
• Desirable for collectors of language history, education, and eighteenth-century printing

A handsome and increasingly scarce eighteenth-century survival from one of the most influential grammarians in the English language.