Treasures of State
Fine and Decorative Arts in the Diplomatic Reception Rooms of the U.S. Department of State
Description:... "The diplomatic reception rooms of the United States Department of State hold one of the world's greatest treasures of early American fine and decorative arts. The Collection, ranking among the foremost in the United States, was assembled through the generosity of hundreds of patriotic Americans, who, for the last thirty years, have supported the acquisition of approximately 4,500 museum-quality objects. These gifts to the nation for the most part represent the period of about 1740 to 1825, and they furnish the period-style rooms used by the Department of State for events of national and international diplomacy. While presenting America's heritage to the world, they provide a comfortable and elegant environment for the business of state. The Diplomatic Reception Rooms display the best of American material culture and have become an integral part of the American style of diplomatic entertaining."-- Preface.
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