1987.277.1 a; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum

Fruit Plate

Artifact ID1987.277.1 a

Date before 1975

Medium paint, ceramic, glaze

DimensionsOverall Diam 8 3/4 in x H 1 1/2 in (3.8 cm x 22.2 cm )

Physical DescriptionA hand-painted round white plate features a golden floral latticework border. Four small clusters of berries are alongside it. Pieces of fruit with red and brown leaves are on the center.
Historical NoteDr. Mildred Scheel, wife German President Walter Scheel, gifted this object to President and Mrs. Ford on July 27, 1975. Like Betty Ford, who as First Lady used her public role to advocate for the Equal Rights Amendment and increase breast cancer awareness, Scheel used her roles as First Lady and physician in the fight against cancer. She raised public awareness on types of cancer, collected donations, and created the nonprofit organization German Cancer Aid. Long-time friend Andy Warhol even created a signature silk-screen portrait of Scheel to raise funds for her organization.Additional Details

Custodial History NoteA foreign official gifted the item to President Gerald R. Ford and First Lady Betty Ford during the Ford Administration. It was presented to them and was maintained at the Executive Office of the President until its transfer to the National Archives in 1981 for deposit with the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum.

National Archives Catalog CollectionGerald R. Ford Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 620931)

National Archives Catalog SeriesHead of State Gifts Given to President Gerald R. Ford (74639696)

Use Restriction Status Unrestricted

Use Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.

Collections

Head of State Gifts