Lot 481
[The White House] 1902 Plaster Cornice. 12¾ x 10½" cornice from the first floor center hall, removed during the 1952 reconstruction. Framed to 20½ x 17¼". Weight is 8.32 oz.
A survey authorized by Congress in 1948 found much of the White House on the verge of collapse. Although it would have been cheaper to tear down the White House and build a new presidential residence, Truman realized the symbolic importance to the American people of the house first inhabited by John Adams and determined to keep the original structure intact. In December of 1948, President Truman moved across the street to Blair House, the official residence for visiting dignitaries. A multi-year renovation began that would cost $5.7 million. Much of the old interior of the was dismantled, but some of the existing interior detail was saved, such as this plaster cornice, which had been installed in 1902.
Buyer responsible for third party shipping. Call to make arrangements.
Estimated Value $600 - 800.
Ex. The Claude Harkins Collection of Americana; Butterfields, 6/29/2001; Fred T. Wright, an architect on The White House Renovation Commission of 1950.
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| Realized $566 |
