I had the pleasure of collaborating on Alexa Hampton's new carpet for the Jefferson Room. I came to learn many interesting details about the previous rug, which was a replica of a replica of a replica. It seems that every object in those rooms has such a lush history. The carpet now in the room was inspired in part by the previous rug, which was a replica of a rug acquired by Congers from the Dodge estate. In fact, that rug was created by the Savonnerie factory which created the original rugs for the Palace at Versailles, so your comparison is accurate. What a great write-up and thank you for bringing more attention to the national treasure that is the Diplomatic Reception Rooms.
Ian, I am so delighted you found my piece. I am happy to know that the beautiful rug you helped design had some roots at Versailles. It ties up the post in a happy bow. Thank you for your kind words about my writing and I agree, more people should know about this wonderful repository of our nation's history and material culture.
Sibling pride aside, your articles are well-written and packed with information. And for me personally, when I read them, I feel as if you are sitting right next to me. Keep up the good work!
Love all the details you provide about these diplomatic rooms in their redesigned splendor! Above all, I found the metaphor you provide—that the rooms reflect founding American values - of generosity and spirited communal respect for our country’s dignity as a democracy- (Where’s that now?),very moving, just as you say. Thank you!
Wow! I was aware that these rooms existed, but I didn't know the back story. Having only glimpsed their decor in the background of photos from official functions, I just assumed that they were in some historic building. I'm gobsmacked to learn that they were conjured up in a 20th century office building. I'm definitely getting that Rizzoli book!
The story of their creation is so special it deserves to be widely known! I am glad I could help with that. It is a terrific book! Thanks for reading and commenting.
I had the pleasure of collaborating on Alexa Hampton's new carpet for the Jefferson Room. I came to learn many interesting details about the previous rug, which was a replica of a replica of a replica. It seems that every object in those rooms has such a lush history. The carpet now in the room was inspired in part by the previous rug, which was a replica of a rug acquired by Congers from the Dodge estate. In fact, that rug was created by the Savonnerie factory which created the original rugs for the Palace at Versailles, so your comparison is accurate. What a great write-up and thank you for bringing more attention to the national treasure that is the Diplomatic Reception Rooms.
Ian, I am so delighted you found my piece. I am happy to know that the beautiful rug you helped design had some roots at Versailles. It ties up the post in a happy bow. Thank you for your kind words about my writing and I agree, more people should know about this wonderful repository of our nation's history and material culture.
Sibling pride aside, your articles are well-written and packed with information. And for me personally, when I read them, I feel as if you are sitting right next to me. Keep up the good work!
Thanks Bro! xoxo
Thank you for this piece, Lynn! Brings back fond memories of visiting with my dad over 30 years ago on my first trip to DC!
Wow did it look a lot different back then? And thanks for reading!
Hi Lynn, I don't *exactly* remember, but I think so! My main memory is how fancy it was, and definitely the juxtaposition with the outside building.
Love all the details you provide about these diplomatic rooms in their redesigned splendor! Above all, I found the metaphor you provide—that the rooms reflect founding American values - of generosity and spirited communal respect for our country’s dignity as a democracy- (Where’s that now?),very moving, just as you say. Thank you!
Thank you for your careful read. And just like these rooms, I think America’s dignity is hiding in plain sight ready to have a light shined on it!
Power of the pen after all :).
Wow! I was aware that these rooms existed, but I didn't know the back story. Having only glimpsed their decor in the background of photos from official functions, I just assumed that they were in some historic building. I'm gobsmacked to learn that they were conjured up in a 20th century office building. I'm definitely getting that Rizzoli book!
The story of their creation is so special it deserves to be widely known! I am glad I could help with that. It is a terrific book! Thanks for reading and commenting.