National Portrait Gallery Buys Oldest Photo of US First Lady

The auction company said the photo was discovered when its sellers were cleaning out a basement after a relative had died. (Photo by Sotheby's)
The auction company said the photo was discovered when its sellers were cleaning out a basement after a relative had died. (Photo by Sotheby's)
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National Portrait Gallery Buys Oldest Photo of US First Lady

The auction company said the photo was discovered when its sellers were cleaning out a basement after a relative had died. (Photo by Sotheby's)
The auction company said the photo was discovered when its sellers were cleaning out a basement after a relative had died. (Photo by Sotheby's)

The Smithsonian Institution's National Portrait Gallery has purchased what is believed to be the earliest ever photo of a US first lady.

The daguerreotype - an image created through the first photographic process - shows former First Lady Dolley Madison, the wife of the fourth US president, James Madison, BBC reported.

The photograph, discovered recently, likely dates back to 1846, the museum said.

The Smithsonian Institution purchased the daguerreotype for $456,000 (£356,000) at a Sotheby's auction in June.

The portrait is "one of exceedingly few surviving photographs of the woman who has defined for two centuries what it means to be the First Lady of the United States of America", Sotheby's said in a statement.

 

 



New Murabba Development Company Reveals Design of New Riyadh Stadium

The stadium will be a central pillar of "New Murabba" the transformative downtown destination in Riyadh City. - SPA
The stadium will be a central pillar of "New Murabba" the transformative downtown destination in Riyadh City. - SPA
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New Murabba Development Company Reveals Design of New Riyadh Stadium

The stadium will be a central pillar of "New Murabba" the transformative downtown destination in Riyadh City. - SPA
The stadium will be a central pillar of "New Murabba" the transformative downtown destination in Riyadh City. - SPA

New Murabba Development Company unveiled on Tuesday the design of New Murabba Stadium, an architectural marvel with a capacity of over 45,000, SPA reported. The stadium will be a central pillar of "New Murabba" the transformative downtown destination in Riyadh City.
Inspired by the layered overlapping planes and peeling planar texture of the native Acacia tree, the New Murabba Stadium's design is a testament to the fusion of tradition and innovation that defines New Murabba.

The stadium will feature cutting-edge sporting technology, creating an immersive and personalized fan experience. The stadium will be a vibrant community hub featuring illuminated entry points and shaded spaces for gathering and socializing.
"The New Murabba Stadium embodies our commitment to transforming Riyadh into a global destination for sports and entertainment," said Michael Dyke, CEO of New Murabba Development Company. "The stadium will not only be a world-class venue for sporting events but also a vibrant community hub that enhances the quality of life for residents and visitors alike."
The New Murabba Stadium is strategically positioned to enhance community engagement. Its design maximizes long-term usability, allowing it to be adapted to host a wide range of events beyond sports, gaming competitions, and exhibitions.
"The New Murabba Stadium is a symbol of Riyadh's dynamic future. It demonstrates our commitment to delivering world-class infrastructure and experiences that will captivate both local communities and global audiences," said Dyke.
With completion anticipated by the end of 2032, this venue promises to become a symbol of Riyadh's transformation, attracting tourists, fostering community spirit, and solidifying Saudi Arabia's position as a leader in sports and entertainment.