During her first visit to the United States in 1951, Princess Elizabeth (the future Queen Elizabeth II) presented a late 17th century overmantel to President Truman. (1/7)
Image Credit: Harry S. Truman Library & Museum/Abbie Rowe, National Park Service
The overmantel, a still life sitting on top a mirror with a gilded frame, was gifted to President Harry S. Truman on behalf of her father, King George VI. (2/7)
Image Credit: Library of Congress
Truman thanked the princess for the gift, inviting her back to see it in the White House upon completion of the White House Renovation. (3/7)
Image Credit: National Park Service, Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum / NARA
Gift-giving is a traditional diplomatic gesture and sign of friendship between countries. Presidents can accept unsolicited gifts on behalf of the United States in their official capacity as required by etiquette. (4/7)
These gifts from foreign governments are processed through the White House Gift Unit, and if they are above a certain minimum value, become the property of the people of the United States according to the Foreign Gifts and Decorations Act. (5/7)
The White House has hosted Queen Elizabeth for four other royal visits between 1957 and 2007. (6/7)
Image Credit: Gerald Ford Presidential Library and Museum / NARA
As recently as 2007, the overmantel could be found in the Queens’ Bedroom, named for the seven queens, including Queen Elizabeth, who have stayed there. (7/7)
Image Credit: White House Historical Association
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