There's a new conversation piece in the White House press briefing room.

Press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre unveiled a new lectern on Thursday, which replaces one that had been used since the entire room got a refresh in 2007. Describing it as "a blend of modernity and tradition," she said it is named after two former White House correspondents.

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"I'm proud to name the lectern in honor of Alice Dunnigan and Ethel Payne, the first two black women in the White House press corps," Jean-Pierre said. "In addition to the annual White House Correspondents Association Award in their name, we are excited to help remember their service to the American public in this way."

The Dunnigan/Payne lectern and its seal were designed over the last year, Jean-Pierre said, adding that the old lectern will be preserved for posterity.

"This [new] lectern, a blend of modernity and tradition, is meant to embody the essence of our country's stature, built using a harmonious combination of metal and black walnut," she said. "As you can see, the metal speaks to the resilience and strength of our nation, while the black walnut represents the rich history and the deep-rooted foundations upon which this country stands."

"The blue paint signifies vigilance, perseverance, and justice," Jean-Pierre continued. "Every member of this team, consisting of Army, Navy, and the civilians, brought unique expertise and skills to the project, and we are deeply grateful for their work and this new addition to our shared space."

The briefing room itself is named after former White House press secretary James Brady, who was shot during an assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan in 1981. The room is located in the West Wing of the White House and dates to 1969, when it was converted from a former indoor swimming pool by then-President Richard Nixon.

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President George W. Bush reopened the room in a ceremony after its last major renovation in 2007, and the former lectern had been in place ever since.

The Washington Examiner reached out to the White House and the White House Correspondents' Association seeking information on the cost, funding, and impetus for the creation of a new lectern.