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El Árbol de la Vida
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library
El Árbol de la Vida
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library

El Árbol de la Vida

Artifact SeriesHead of State Gifts
Artifact IDFO.101282.1
Object Type Miniature
Gifter
Intended Recipient (American, 1961)
Intended Recipient (American, 1964)
Medium clay, paint, metal
DimensionsOverall - 3D H 4 in x W 4 1/8 in x D 1 1/2 in (10.2 cm x 10.5 cm x 3.8 cm )
Physical DescriptionClay miniature sculpture resembling a traditional Mexican Tree of Life depicting shapes and symbols representative of First Lady Michelle Obama's interests and pastimes. Among these depictions are a model of the White House, the Chicago Cloud Gate, an American Flag, ladybugs, birds, flowers, and aspects of American culture such as books, food, and film. In front of the White House is a recreation of the First Family portrait. Throughout the piece there are aditional human figures.
Historical NoteReceived on the occasion of an official working visit to the White House by Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto on January 6, 2015.
Custodial History / ProvenanceThe item was a gift from a foreign official to President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama during the Obama Administration. It was received through the Executive 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 Details
National Archives Catalog CollectionBarack Obama Artifact Collection (National Archives Identifier 63542091)
National Archives Catalog SeriesGifts of State (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.
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