


Portrait of a 1913 American Business Visionary
On July 15, 1913, a glass negative captured a portrait of R. S. Brookings, an influential figure in early 20th-century America. Brookings was a prominent businessman and philanthropist, best known for his role in the development of St. Louis, Missouri. His work in the financing and construction of the Brookings Hall at Washington University laid the foundation for an institution that continues to resonate in higher education today. His contributions were integral to the growth of the area and underscore how local leaders shaped urban development during this transformative period.
R. S. Brookings was also a key player in various civic activities, promoting social welfare in St. Louis. His commitment went beyond business, encompassing education and public health, showing how individuals can impact communities. The year this photograph was taken marked a pivotal time in American history, as cities like St. Louis were expanding rapidly, and leaders like Brookings were crucial in navigating the challenges and opportunities that growth brought. This image, preserved as a glass negative, not only serves as a visual record but also reminds us of the human stories behind urban development in the early 1900s.

Portrait of a 1913 American Business Visionary
The Details
About This Print
🌲 Gallery-Quality Materials: Archival matte paper and optional solid, sustainably sourced Ayous wood frame.
✨ Shatterproof Protection: Crystal-clear Acrylite shield blocks glare and resists damage.
🛠️ Ready to Hang: Arrives at your door fully assembled and ready for the wall.
📦 Fast & Safe Shipping: Securely packaged to ensure flawless delivery.
Materials & Craftsmanship
The Unframed Print
Carefully restored from the original artwork and reproduced using gallery-quality, fade-resistant inks. Printed on heavyweight, museum-grade archival paper, this is the ideal choice if you prefer to use your own custom frame. KNOWOL reproductions are beautifully restored works of art.
The Framed Upgrade
Crafted from solid Ayous wood sourced from renewable forests, a sustainable, exotic timber that is lightweight and incredibly warp-resistant. Featuring a sleek 0.75″ profile in your choice of finish. Protected by premium Acrylite. Unlike cheap, heavy glass, our Acrylite is shatterproof, exceptionally clear, and lightweight, ensuring your vintage map is protected for decades to come. All framing components are ethically sourced from Japan and the US. Framed prints arrive fully assembled with hanging hardware included. No frame shop, no assembly, no second trips.
Shipping & Delivery
Free U.S. Shipping: All orders ship 100% free within the United States.
Unframed Prints: Carefully rolled and shipped in a heavy-duty, crush-resistant mailing tube.
Framed Prints: Shipped in custom-built protective packaging engineered specifically to keep the frame corners and Acrylite cover in flawless condition during transit.
Turnaround Time: Most orders ship within 3–5 business days and arrive at your door within 7–10 business.
Returns & Quality Guarantee
Because every piece is custom-printed and framed to order exactly to your specifications, we are unable to accept returns or exchanges for a change of mind or sizing issues. However, we stand 100% behind our craftsmanship. If your art arrives damaged in transit or has a visible defect, email us a photo within 30 days and we will immediately expedite a flawless replacement. Quality guaranteed: the KNOWOL standard.
