White House South Portico Ornament

This is not a standard souvenir found in public visitor centers or online stores. This rare South Portico ornament was acquired directly from the private museum shop previously located within the secure perimeter of the White House East Wing. Access to this specific retail space was strictly limited to guests who passed security clearance for official tours, making this a true insider collectible.

The provenance of this piece is significant because the location of its purchase no longer exists. Following the demolition of the East Wing in October 2025 to accommodate the new State Ballroom construction, the original shop where this item was sourced has been permanently removed. The accompanying informational card explicitly verifies that this piece was sold exclusively in the White House, distinguishing it from the mass-market editions available to the general public.

The ornament itself is a masterpiece of architectural modeling, finished in twenty-four karat gold to showcase the celebrated South Facade of the President’s House. It precisely depicts the graceful curvature of the South Portico, which was originally added in 1824 using stone quarried in Maryland, alongside the iconic double staircases designed by architect James Hoban. The piece also memorializes the Second Floor balcony added by President Harry S. Truman in 1948, creating a multi-layered historical portrait in metal. This fine craftsmanship ensures the item remains a stunning display piece that rivals the historical significance of its unique point of purchase.