presents . . .
An exhibition of Presidential dinnerware has been touring NZ recently and this has created special interest wherever it has been displayed. The exhibit includes dinnerware produced for past American Presidents. As well as its historic significance, it shows to the best advantage the design capability and technical expertise of this world renowned American manufacturer.
- Wilson
- Roosevelt
- Truman
- Reagan
- Clinton
Wilson 1918
President and Mrs. Woodrow Wilson were the first White House residents to choose an official service from an American manufacturer.
The order for approximately 1,700 pieces was delivered to the White House in the fall of 1918.
Frank G. Holmes chief artist for the Lenox factory since 1905 designed the Wilson service.
The motif is supremely patriotic – stars & stripes surrounding the Presidential Seal.
Roosevelt 1935
President & Mrs. Franklin Roosevelt ordered the first new White House service since the Wilson administration. The New Deal, reasoned Mrs. Roosevelt needed new china.
The rose-and-feather motif of the inner border was taken from the Roosevelt’s ancestral coat of arms.
In 1935 the set was used in January at the annual state dinner for the heads of foreign missions – the largest affair of its kind at the White House.
Truman 1951
The White House service purchased by the President & Mrs. Harry S. Truman had a celadon-green border to match the newly redecorated state dining room.
Following World War II, President Truman had decreed that the eagle in the presidential seal would face the olive branch symbolising peace, rather than tokens of war.
Presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, Ford and Carter continued to use the Truman china.
Reagan 1981
In 1981, President & Mrs. Ronald Reagan ordered a new White House service with a brilliant red border. The color was chosen by Mrs. Reagan. The service consisted of 4,500 pieces, enough china to serve 220 guests. Each place setting has nineteen pieces.
Presidents Bush & Clinton continued to use the Reagan china.
Clinton 2000
At the 200
th birthday party of the White House, First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton unveiled the new White House china. The new service includes 300 twelve piece place settings. The service differs markedly from the previous White House services.
Its design honors the building rather than the president. A view of the White House is featured in the center of the service plate. The varied motifs used in the borders were based on the architectural design elements from the state dining room, east room and diplomatic reception room of the White House.
Lenox
With over 120 years’ experience, Lenox’s reputation is most highly regarded throughout the table top industry. ‘From the White House to your house’ - Lenox tableware portrays quality and style.
Also on display is a wide collection of Lenox crystal and giftware plus many items in their associated brands. This includes the Marchesa by Lenox collection - inspired by elegant haute couture red carpet eveningwear and exquisite bridal gowns interpreted into charming dinnerware & stemware with the same unparalleled level of quality synonymous with Marchesa and Lenox.
This is the last opportunity to view this unique exhibit. It will be on display at our showroom during February after which it will be returned to the USA.
In conjunction with this exhibit we have a great offer for you:
Gift with purchase*
- Spend $300 or more on Lenox product and receive a FREE set of 4 Tuscany Wines
(valued at $79.00)
Shop for Lenox products now |
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You are invited to come to our showroom at your convenience during this event.
(location /
showroom hours)
Conditions:
Gift with purchase
* Includes Lenox, Marchesa by Lenox, Dansk & Gorham
* Limit one per customer in a single transaction only
* Available until 28th February or while stocks last