Pier Table in the Blue Room, Kennedy Administration

This photograph by Bates Littlehales captures the Empire style pier table in the Blue Room in March 1962, during the John F. Kennedy administration. The pier table was made around 1817 from gilded and carved beechwood by Pierre-Antoine Bellangé. Atop the table is Giuseppe Ceracchi's marble bust of President George Washington. The Blue Room is located on the State Floor of the Executive Mansion. The oval parlor has been known as the Blue Room since Martin Van Burens 1837 redecoration. The room is often used for receptions, photo opportunities, and during the holiday season is home to the official White House Christmas Tree.