Lot Essay
The monogram RSR is that of Richard Stockton Rush (1780-1859), son of Dr. Benjamin Rush, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Richard Rush is well known for his involvement in the creation of the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.. While U.S. minister to Great Britain between 1817-1825, Rush worked to acquire James Smithson's bequest for the United States. He later served on the Smithsonian's board.