Rambler Press proudly presents an exceptional collector's edition of A Journey to the Western Islands of Scotland—Samuel Johnson's timeless travelogue and a milestone of 18th-century English literature. First published in 1775, this deeply reflective narrative recounts Johnson's 83-day journey through the Highlands and Hebrides in the late summer and autumn of 1773, accompanied by his friend and biographer, James Boswell.
This exclusive edition, limited to 25 hand-bound copies, offers a rare and immersive reading experience. Every element—from the typography to the paper, from the handmade binding to the period-inspired design—has been curated with historical fidelity and artisanal precision.
A Masterpiece of Travel Writing
At 63, Samuel Johnson set out on a journey that would challenge his body, deepen his thought, and ultimately result in one of English letters' most profound travel narratives. With his Scottish companion Boswell at his side, Johnson ventured into a rugged and remote landscape shaped by Gaelic culture and the fading clan system.
The resulting book, A Journey to the Western Islands of Scotland, is more than a record of landscapes and customs. It is a philosophical and cultural meditation on identity, loss, tradition, and change. Johnson's language—elegant, restrained, yet incisive—offers insights not only into 18th-century Scotland but also into the universal nature of human society in flux.
This volume remains essential for readers drawn to cultural history, literary travel, and the intellectual richness of the Enlightenment.
A New Edition That Honors the Past
Our Rambler Press edition is designed not only to reproduce the text but also to reawaken the spirit of the time in which it was written. Each copy reflects meticulous attention to detail and a passion for historical craft.
- Typography: Set in Monotype Bell and Monotype Bulmer, two exquisite typefaces popular in Great Britain during the 1780s. Their refined forms evoke the clarity and elegance of Enlightenment-era printing.
- Paper: This book is printed on Fabriano Tiepolo 130 g cotton paper, a luxurious stock from one of Europe's oldest paper mills. This archival-quality paper offers a velvety texture and rich print definition, lending each page an heirloom quality.
- Binding: Each volume is hand-bound by Magdalena Bulanda in half leather with marbled paper sides, reflecting 18th-century British binding traditions. The spine is gilt-stamped, and each book is housed in a custom-fitted protective case.
- Finishing Touches: The edges of the text block are hand-coloured, echoing period styles and enhancing the volume's overall aesthetic unity.
- Dimensions and Format: This book is 240 pages long and in a comfortable 165 x 250 mm format, making it both readable and elegant on the shelf.
This is more than a fine edition—it is a work of book art made for collectors, bibliophiles, and admirers of classic literature.
A Celebration of Print Culture
At Rambler Press, how a book is made matters as much as what it says. That's why every decision in producing this volume pays homage to Johnson's time's literary and material culture.
Monotype Bell and Bulmer are not merely fonts—they are typographic legacies. Bell was first designed in the 1780s by Richard Austin and is admired for its harmony and readability. Based on the work of William Martin for the celebrated British printer William Bulmer, Bulmer brings a sense of refinement and clarity ideal for literary prose.
Fabriano's Tiepolo paper, made in Italy with centuries of papermaking tradition, is favoured by fine presses and printmakers for its strength, smoothness, and subtle texture. The cotton fibre composition ensures that this book will endure—not just as an object of beauty but as a lasting repository of thought and history.
An Edition for the Discerning Reader
This limited edition is not intended for the mass market. With only 25 numbered copies available worldwide, it celebrates exclusivity, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage. Whether you are a collector of fine press books, a scholar of 18th-century literature, or simply a lover of meaningful objects, this edition belongs in your library.
Each copy is a unique testament to the enduring power of excellent writing and great design. It invites the reader to encounter Johnson's insights into the Scottish Highlands and hold a piece of publishing history in their hands.
Specifications:
- Title: A Journey to the Western Islands of Scotland
- Author: Samuel Johnson
- Edition: Rambler Press, limited to 25 copies
- Typefaces: Monotype Bell and Monotype Bulmer
- Paper: Fabriano Tiepolo 130 g, 100% cotton
- Binding: Hand-bound in half leather by Magdalena Bulanda, with a protective case
- Page Count: 240
- Size: 165 x 250 mm
- Block Edges: Hand-colored in 18th-century style
Availability
Only 25 collectors worldwide will have the privilege of owning this extraordinary edition. For pricing, availability, or to reserve your copy, please contact Rambler Press directly.
Rediscover Johnson's voice. Reclaim the printed past. Own a legacy.
A Collector's Edition by Rambler Press – Where Literature, Craft, and History Meet
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