The Cyclopædia of Practical Quotations (1883) | Fifth Edition | Hoyt & Ward, 899 Pages | Half Leather Victorian Reference

A substantial and scholarly Victorian literary reference: The Cyclopædia of Practical Quotations, compiled by J. K. Hoyt and Anna L. Ward. Published in New York by Funk & Wagnalls, 1883. Fifth Edition.

This impressive 899-page volume gathers English and Latin quotations, proverbs, ecclesiastical and legal terms, foreign mottos, concordances, topical indexes, and classified subjects ranging from Love and Heaven to Trees and Plants and Shakespeare. Designed for writers, clergy, educators, and public speakers, it served as a comprehensive rhetorical tool in the late 19th century.

Bound in half brown leather over textured cloth boards with gilt spine titling and decorative floral devices. The spine presents with period character and warm patina. Internally, the book is notably clean and well preserved for its size and age, with strong paper and a tight, sound binding — uncommon in heavily used reference volumes of this era.

A classic Victorian desk reference that blends literary scholarship with decorative antique appeal.

Condition: Half leather binding with moderate exterior rubbing and edge wear consistent with age, most visible at corners and spine edges. Gilt to all edges. Gilt spine lettering remains legible. Binding tight and secure. Interior pages are clean with light, age-appropriate toning. 899 pages complete. A very solid and well-preserved copy.

Size: 6 3/4” x 10”

A handsome and substantial 19th-century literary companion — equally suited to active use or display in a refined study.