Theodore R. Davis, “On Chesapeake Bay”
Game Platter – 1879
Commissioned by President Rutherford B. Hayes, this game platter is one of only two ordered for the White House. Originally, only the dessert service within the ordered china was to draw inspiration from ferns. However, Davis, who was at the White House to photograph the president, saw the pattern and felt the entire set should spotlight the ?ora and fauna of the United States. Elated with the idea, First Lady Lucy Hayes placed Davis in charge of the design of the service. Now, a piece of this legendary White House service can be showcased in your house.