Yellow Oval Room, John F. Kennedy Administration

This photograph of the Yellow Oval Room was taken by Robert L. Knudsen on May 3, 1962, during the John F. Kennedy administration. The Yellow Oval Room is captured during First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy’s redecoration of the room but before upholstery was completed. Mrs. Kennedy oversaw the restoration and refurbishment of several rooms in the White House. The Yellow Oval Room has served as a family library, study, and sitting room. Under the direction of Mrs. Kennedy, it was made into a formal drawing room for the first family. The room is also where the president greets guests of honor before State Dinners. The room's color scheme echoes the yellow damask furnishings and curtains selected by First Lady Dolley Madison.