Historical information

This is a miniature book and container which was known as ‘the Smallest English Dictionary in the World’. It is a copy of a Dr Johnson dictionary. It was intended to be worn as a locket and sold with an accompanying magnifying glass. It was an advertising feature for the Pears Soap company.

Significance

This item has no local significance but it is a very interesting one, showing the type of novelty adornment popular in the late Victorian era.

Physical description

This is a miniature book with a red leather cover and 384 pages. The name of the book and the name ‘Pears’ are stamped in gilt on the covers. The book is enclosed in a silver-coloured metal container with a thickened glass window in front to view the title of the book. The glass acts as a magnifier. The container has a hinged closing device. It has a ring at the top to attach the item to a chain or belt. The container is much rusted.

Inscriptions & markings

Front cover of book: ‘Bryce’s English Dictionary’
Back Cover: ‘Pears’