Since President Donald Trump’s inauguration, the Oval Office has undergone a remarkable transformation. There is an increased emphasis on golden decor and a significant addition of presidential portraits.
CNN reported on Sunday that the number of paintings in the Oval Office has tripled in just eight weeks since Trump took office.
Under former President Joe Biden, only six portraits were displayed. Trump, however, has expanded this collection to twenty. Notably, a large oil portrait of former President Ronald Reagan now hangs prominently to the left of the desk, while a new picture of George Washington graces the space above the fireplace.
Trump personally curated the selection of portraits, carefully choosing images of historical figures such as Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Jackson, and Franklin D. Roosevelt. Sources suggest that he diligently reviewed multiple catalogs to select the most fitting paintings from the federal government’s collection of presidential portraits.
CNN described the Oval Office as resembling a gallery showroom, with paintings packed so tightly together that they seem to compete for space.
Beyond the artwork, Trump has introduced golden accents throughout the office. A lavish Rococo-style mirror now adorns the door, while a golden eagle statuette rests on a side table.
In addition to the portraits, Trump has added golden statues and angelic figures from his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, to the White House decor. Even the TV remote has been swapped out for a gold-plated version.
The media also reported that the White House Rose Garden is set for a significant overhaul. Once a key location for presidential announcements and press conferences, this historically significant space will soon be redesigned to reflect the style of Mar-a-Lago. The renovation plans include removing some grass and creating a patio-style area with comfortable seating, with construction expected to begin in the coming weeks.
In addition, discussions are underway about constructing a ballroom on the South Lawn to host state dinners and receptions. Trump reportedly envisions decorating this new ballroom in the extravagant style of the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles. He intends to fund the project personally and is currently reviewing several blueprints.
These extensive changes to the historic White House grounds will likely stir controversy. A former White House official pointed out that while every president has the right to personalize their office, Trump’s style seems more fitting for a king than a president.
Comments0