John (1880) Billings Sold at Auction Prices

JOHN SHAW BILLINGS PRESENTATION SAMPLER

JOHN SHAW BILLINGS PRESENTATION SAMPLER Adam & Eve English Style Wool on Linen Sampler presented to John Shaw Billings on April 12th, 1903, on the occasion of his retirement as the Director of the New York Public Library (hence the references to books and libraries in the quotes at top), with initials indicating it was made by his wife (?). In mahogany panel frame, under glass, OS: 25" x 23", SS: 22" x 20". Fine condition. Dr. Billings (1838-1913) was an American surgeon, building designer, statistician, and librarian who oversaw the construction of the Surgeon General''s Library, John Hopkins Hospital, led the successful effort to eradicate yellow fever in the US, and served as the first director of the New York Public Library.