China Room Renovations, Kennedy Administration

This photograph, taken by Robert L. Knudsen on August 28, 1963, shows the China Room in the midst of refurbishments during the John F. Kennedy administration. The room was redecorated to a vibrant grey, white, and red color scheme. The red velvet used for the settee and to line the china cabinet shelves was inspired by the gown seen in Howard Chandler Christy's portrait of First Lady Grace Goodhue Coolidge, first placed in this room in 1952. A circa 1825 marble mantel, seen here, was also added to the room during the renovations. The project was overseen by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy and French interior designer Stéphane Boudin.