Centerpiece in the Pierce Service

This French porcelain centerpiece was purchased from the New York City firm of Haughwout & Dailey in 1853 as part of the state service that President Franklin Pierce ordered for the White House. The three figures that support the large bowl are made of Parian ware, a type of bisque porcelain that resembles carved marble. The centerpiece became one of the best known items in the presidential china collection after First Lady Caroline Harrison discovered it in the White House attic in the 1890s.