Gold Pendant Necklace
Artifact SeriesDomestic Gifts
Artifact IDDO.730433.1
Object Type
Necklace
Intended Recipient
First Lady Michelle Obama
(American, 1964)
Medium
metal (gold)
DimensionsOverall - 3D H 1/8 in x W 1 in x D 16 7/8 in (0.3 cm x 2.5 cm x 42.9 cm )
Overall - 2D (Chain) L 30 7/8 in (78.4 cm )
Physical DescriptionOverall - 2D (Chain) L 30 7/8 in (78.4 cm )
Physical DescriptionGold pendant necklace inscribed with Elizabeth Alexander poem "Praise Song for the Day" that was recited at President Barack Obama's 2009 Inauguration. Pendant hangs from a silver-toned cable chain.
Inscriptions and MarkingsEngraved on obverse of pendant: Love beyond
marital, filial, national,
love that casts a
widening pool of light,
love with no need to
pre-empt grievance.
In today’s sharp sparkle,
this winter air,
any thing can
be made.
Engraved on reverse of pendant: any
sentence begun.
On the brink, on the brim,
on the cusp,
praise song for walking
forward in that light.
- Elizabeth Alexander
Custodial History / ProvenanceThe item was a gift from a member of the general public to First Lady Michelle Obama during the Obama Administration. It was received through the Office of the President and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives in January 2017 for deposit with the Obama Presidential Library.Additional DetailsNational Archives Catalog CollectionBarack Obama Artifact Collection (National Archives Identifier 63542091)
National Archives Catalog SeriesDomestic Gifts (National Archives Identifier 66540613)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - Possibly
Use Restriction NoteCopyright or other proprietary rights may be held by individuals or entities other than the Obama Presidential Library. The Obama Presidential Library does not warrant that the use of materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.
In Collection(s)
Not on view
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