Portrait of Elizabeth Kortright Monroe

This portrait of Elizabeth Monroe by Frances Maury Burke is a copy of a John Vanderlyn original currently in the White House. A stylish and well-traveled woman, Mrs. Monroe followed European social customs in her conduct of White House entertaining. This approach, plus recurrent poor health that kept her absent from many formal events, made her unpopular in certain circles of Washington society. However, guests invited to smaller, less elaborate dinners with the Monroes frequently commented on the First Lady's warm personality.