Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
WHITE HOUSE DECORATIVE FEATURES
1. THE VERMEIL ROOM
“Vermeil” refers to the collection of gilded objects by early 19th-century silversmiths
on display. Portraits of several First Ladies adorn the walls, and the room is groun-
ded by one of the Empire-style tables purchased by President Andrew Jackson in
1829 for use in the East Room.
2. CHINA ROOM COLLECTION
The White House collection of china services had grown so large by 1917 that Mrs
Woodrow Wilson set aside a room in which to display it. State and family china be-
longing to nearly every US president fills the fine display cabinets.
3. GRAND STAIRCASE
Descending to the Central Hall on the north side, the Grand Staircase is used for ce-
remonial entrances to state events in the East Room. Portraits of 20th-century pres-
idents line the stairwell.
4. LIBRARY
This former storage room was turned into a library in 1935, and contains a collection
of books intended to reflect the philosophical and practical aspects of the presidency.
Many pieces of the furniture in this room are attributed to the cabinetmaker Duncan
Phyfe.
5. DIPLOMATIC RECEPTION ROOM WALLPAPER
The panoramic wallpaper is a series of large “Views of North America” printed in
France in 1834.
View photo
6. LIGHTER RELIEVING A STEAMBOAT AGROUND
This 1847 painting in the Green Room, by George Caleb Bingham, conveys the vital-
ity of the nation.
