Arthur Administration Dessert Plate

This dessert plate decorated with paintings of sparrows and a bright blue border was not part of an official state service, but was likely used by President Chester A. Arthur. Rather than purchasing a new state service, President Arthur used the Hayes china for state dinners and family meals. However, special china services, such as this plate, may have been used for receptions and afternoon teas or were just ornamental or cabinet pieces for display. The printed mark on the plates reverse shows it was most likely part of the 1882 purchase from Tiffany & Co.