A James K. Polk (President 1845-1849) Presidential Pattern Plate

Purchased by James K. Polk's administration in 1846 from Alexander Stewart & Co. in New York City, the decorative elements, shape and origin of this service clearly demonstrate the French rococo style which was the current fashion. Contrary to previous presidential commissions, this particular pattern reflects a renewed sense of nationalism as it is the first to bear the red, white and blue emblem along with the motto of the United States of America in its design. For further information on this pattern, see Margaret Brown Klapthor's White House China: 1789 to the Present, Second Edition, New York, 1999, p. 67-75. Another example from the same dessert service is illustrated on p.70.