Papier-mâché depiction of FDR as the Great Sphinx of Giza

This papier-mache depiction of FDR as the Great Sphinx of Giza was created as a humorous commentary on the President's prolonged refusal to say whether he would run for a third term in 1940. It was the centerpiece for a satirical skit at the annual dinner of the Gridiron Club (the organization of White House correspondents) on December 9, 1939. Roosevelt attended the dinner as guest of honor. The Sphinx sculpture was constructed by James D. Preston, former superintendent of the Senate Press Gallery. FDR was so delighted with the sculpture he had it shipped to the Roosevelt Library, where it was put on display in 1941. MO 1941.12.40.