@hightor,
If you look at the ‘artefacts’ with which Trump surrounds himself in the Oval Office
— mainly vases, trophies and decorative bowls — they date from the 19th century. However, they are probably modern replicas.
There is, however, a certain randomness to the selection of objects. A FIFA Cup stands alongside objects with a classical appearance, presumably gilded. In this way, Trump displays only outward ostentation, not an appreciation of art. (The First Lady, at least, studied art history and architecture for two semesters.)
The accumulation of gold objects lends him a certain dignity and inviolability. He reigns like an emperor in his empire.
And his successors would do the same, wouldn’t they?
Which suddenly reminds me of a hereditary monarchy …
