Blue Room, Barack Obama Administration

This photograph of two lamps atop a pier table in the Blue Room was taken by Matthew D'Agostino on February 10, 2014 during the Barack Obama administration. Hanging above the pier table is Samuel Morse's portrait of President James Monroe. The Blue Room is located on the State Floor of the Executive Mansion. The oval-shaped parlor has been known as the Blue Room since Martin Van Buren’s 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. This photograph was taken during a press preview held that day to showcase the decor and menu ahead of a State Dinner hosted by President Obama for President François Hollande of the French Republic, including a look at the French influences in the White House rooms and fine and decorative arts in the White House Collection. The Blue Room traditionally has several pieces from the 53-piece furniture suite crafted by Pierre-Antoine Bellangé of Paris and purchased during the Monroe administration.