JOHN F. KENNEDY (1917–1963)

An original inauguration package associated with the swearing-in of John F. Kennedy on January 20, 1961 — a defining moment in modern American political history. The ceremony is remembered for one of the most quoted lines in political rhetoric: “Ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.”

The set includes the official United States Congress invitation to attend the inauguration ceremonies of the President and Vice President. The printed text reads: “You are cordially invited to attend the inauguration ceremonies of the President and Vice President of the United States.” The document bears the names of key congressional figures, including John Sparkman, Carl Hayden, Styles Bridges, Sam Rayburn, John W. McCormack, and Charles A. Halleck, reinforcing its official character.

The composition is complemented by matte portraits of John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson with facsimile signatures, presented in the classic 6.25 × 9.5 inch format. The central invitation, featuring the Great Seal of the United States, anchors the composition visually and historically. The entire set is presented in an artist-designed presentation with a balanced, museum-style layout.

This work captures the atmosphere of a pivotal political transition and reflects the visual language of official American state ceremonies of the early 1960s. It holds value as a collectible historical object and as a meaningful gift connected to a defining moment in global political history.