Title: Monroe Sofa and Armchairs

Description: Pierre-Antoine Bellange, a designer for the Royal Palaces in France, created fifty-three carved and gilded pieces of furniture for the room today known as the Blue Room. The furniture has a golden eagle surrounded by leaves on its upholstery. Before becoming president, James Monroe served as a diplomat to France. It was while in France that President and Mrs. Monroe developed their preference for French decorations.

Date: c.1817

Creator: Pierre-Antoine Bellange, Paris

Credit: Photograph by Bruce White, copyright White House Historical Association