WASHINGTON, D.C., United States — The Blue Room of the White House features an ornate chandelier and a portrait of William Howard Taft, the 27th President of the United States. The room's distinctive oval shape and elegant furnishings exemplify the formal style of the Executive Mansion's State Floor.
Image details
Contributor:
David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy Stock PhotoImage ID:
2XYGBG5File size:
41.1 MB (1.4 MB Compressed download)Releases:
Model - no | Property - noDo I need a release?Dimensions:
4654 x 3083 px | 39.4 x 26.1 cm | 15.5 x 10.3 inches | 300dpiDate taken:
31 January 2018Location:
National Mall, Washington, District of Columbia, United StatesMore information:
Photograph by David Coleman. The Blue Room, one of three state parlors on the first floor of the White House, is renowned for its elegant decor and historical significance. This oval-shaped room, situated in the center of the South Front, has served as a reception area for foreign dignitaries and distinguished guests since the early 19th century. The room's focal point is an exquisite chandelier, which hangs from the center of the ceiling. This lighting fixture, while periodically updated or replaced throughout history, maintains the room's air of grandeur and reflects the evolving tastes of different administrations. The portrait of William Howard Taft, visible in the room, is part of the White House's extensive collection of presidential portraits. Taft, who served as the 27th President from 1909 to 1913, was known for his judicial career and later became Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court. The Blue Room's decor has been influenced by various periods and styles, most notably the American Federal and French Empire styles. Its current appearance largely reflects the restoration efforts of Jacqueline Kennedy in the early 1960s, who sought to recapture the room's historical essence while ensuring its functionality for modern presidential use. The room's blue color scheme, which gives it its name, dates back to 1837 when Martin Van Buren redecorated it. The color has since become a tradition, though its exact shade has varied over time. The Blue Room's furnishings, including gilded chairs and settees, are often arranged in a circular pattern to complement the room's shape. As one of the most important rooms in the White House, the Blue Room has witnessed numerous historical events, including presidential ceremonies, diplomatic receptions, and holiday celebrations. It continues to play a central role in White House functions, serving as a testament to the enduring traditions and evolving story of the American presidency.