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John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA
Relief of Simon Bolivar
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA
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Relief of Simon Bolivar

Artifact IDMO 63.1851.1
Object Type Relief
Date 1832
Date Presented12/17/1961
Gifter
Place MadeVenezuela, South America
Medium Bronze, silver, walnut
DimensionsFramed H 10 in x W 10 in (25.4 cm x 25.4 cm)
Physical DescriptionBronze medallion with a high relief of Simon Bolivar in profile in center. "David -1832" appears incised below on bottom rim of the medallion. The entire medallion is set into a silver metal surround that is framed in wood.
Historical NoteThis relief was presented to President John F. Kennedy during his state visit to Venezuela by Romulo Betancourt, President of Venezuela, on December 17, 1961. Simon Bolivar was one of South America's greatest generals. His victories over the Spaniards won independence for Bolivia, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. President John F. Kennedy laid a wreath on the tomb of General Simón Bolívar inside the Pantheon in observance of the 131st anniversary of Bolívar’s death during his visit.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteItem was a gift from a foreign official to the President and First Lady received through the Executive office during the Kennedy Administration and transferred to the General Service Administration where it was held until donated to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum by the Estate of President John F. Kennedy in 1965.
Credit LineJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of President John F. Kennedy
National Archives Catalog CollectionJohn F. Kennedy Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676934)
National Archives Catalog SeriesGifts from Heads of State (National Archives Identifier 1677008)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedUse Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
In Collection(s)
On view
Related Links
YouTube video of President Kennedy at wreath laying ceremony for General Bolivar: "Video of President Kennedy at wreath laying ceremony in Venezuela"