The Hermitage Museum The Hermitage is the most visited museum in our country, with over three million visitors annually. It was named after the French word 'ermitage', which means a secluded place or hermit's corner. Catherine the Great invited Walter to Russia to share her love for art and show him her beautiful paintings.
The Winter Palace 'Zimnii Dvorets' or The Winter Palace is part of the main imperial residence of Tsarist dynasty Romanovs. It was built by Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli in eight years for Empress Elizabeth, known as one of Europe's most beautiful women at that time. The palace features a magnificent marble staircase called Posolskaya Lestnitsa (Ambassadorial Staircase) made from Carrara and Italian marbles.
The Film Legacy of Shilov and the Potemkin Village This chapter explores the significance of the film legacy of Shilov, showcasing notable figures from Russian history. It delves into how these individuals earned their place in history through their achievements and contributions.
"Potemkinskie Derevni": The Unique Style of Empiricism "Potemkinskie Derevni" refers to a distinct architectural style known as empiricism that emerged during Napoleon's era. This style celebrates empire and is characterized by its grandeur, featuring elements such as shields, weapons, and elaborate chandeliers.
Petrovskii Zal: A Tribute to Peter I & Kutuzov's Monument In this chapter, we explore Petrovskii Zal - a memorial hall dedicated to Peter I. We also encounter Kutuzov's monument which pays homage to one of Russia's most renowned military leaders who played a crucial role in defeating Napoleon during the War of 1812.
The Grand Ballroom and Live Music In the grand ballroom of the Winter Palace, guests enjoyed live music from musicians positioned on balconies. The acoustics in this room were exceptional, allowing the vibrant music to fill the entire space. The columns in the ballroom were covered in high-quality gold leaf, adding to its beauty.
"Gallery of Fatherland" with Portraits of Generals "Gallery of Fatherland" showcases portraits of Russian generals who fought bravely against Napoleon's army. One notable portrait is that of Barclay de Tolly, a general who suffered a severe injury during battle but continued to serve despite excruciating pain. Another portrait is that of Kutuzov, known for his contributions to victory even though he was twice wounded.
Portraits Without Faces and Historical Significance George Dawe created portraits without faces due to lack or loss thereof for some generals who died before their portraits could be made.The gallery also features paintings by George Dawe depicting important historical figures such as Alexander I and two allied monarchs - King Frederick William III (Prussia) and Emperor Francis II (Austria). These paintings are covered with green fabric except for those representing Tsar Nicholas I's ban on foreign diplomats stepping on national symbols like double-headed eagles.
The Remarkable Throne At the intersection of Nevsky and Moika, there is a remarkable throne with lion paw legs. It reminds us of Game of Thrones. The ceiling here collapsed during a fire in August 1941 but was cleverly saved by bricking up the doors.
The Hanging Garden "Hanging Gardens" were created by Catherine II's favorite architect Filatov. They were glass-ceilinged gardens where orange trees bloomed all year round, creating an exotic atmosphere reminiscent of paradise.
My Favorite Hall: Winter Hermitage Pavilion This hall houses Elizabeth, daughter of Peter I's portrait and was used for exclusive dinners hosted by Catherine II for her closest friends. Ivan Kulibin managed to assemble James Cox's peacock clock after six years.
The Masterpieces of the Hermitage In this chapter, we explore the masterpieces found in the Hermitage Museum. One of these is a mosaic copy of Medusa Gorgon's head created by talented artists and craftsmen. We also discover two valuable insured paintings worth $500 million each. As we walk through the museum, we encounter Apollo Belvedere, Rembrandt's 'Return of the Prodigal Son,' and Leonardo da Vinci's Madonna with a Flower.
'Madonna with a Flower' by Leonardo da Vinci 'Madonna with a Flower' is one of only twelve known paintings by Leonardo da Vinci displayed in museums worldwide. This painting depicts Mary holding baby Jesus who holds a small bird in his hand symbolizing his future suffering on the cross. The artwork showcases unconditional love between mother and child.
Raphael’s Loggias: A Corner from Southern Italy This chapter focuses on Raphael’s Loggias located within Peterhof Palace complex near St.Petersburg.The loggias were constructed as an antidepressant for Catherine II during her bad mood swings.Catherine was so fascinated that she requested copies to be made which took ten years to complete.Finally,the replica was placed at The State Hermitage Museum where visitors can admire it today.
The Divine Art of Raphael In the magnificent hall, we see the divine paintings of Raphael. One interesting work is a painting where Jesus holds a pomegranate instead of a book, symbolizing his bloodline. Another remarkable artwork depicts the Holy Family with Joseph portrayed without a beard.
Masterpieces in the Hermitage 'Maiolica' from the 16th and 17th centuries can be found in this section. The Italian influence is evident in these large-scale paintings created for churches. One notable piece is 'The Crucifixion of Apostle Peter,' which portrays his suffering with great realism.
The Battle of Adonis Adonis is defeated in a battle and his life comes to an end. A rose grows where his blood was spilled, symbolizing Venus's love for him.
Spanish Art at the Hermitage Museum "El Prado" by Francisco Goya is one of the most famous Spanish paintings at the Hermitage Museum. It depicts a beautiful woman who died shortly after it was completed.
The Origins of Museums Museums have existed since ancient times, starting as temples dedicated to the muses. They were places where Greeks would pray and bring their artistic works. Ancient Greek sculptures were often painted with wax-based colors, but over time these colors faded or were removed.
Venus Tauride: A Stolen Beauty "Venus Tauride", also known as "Aphrodite", is a valuable sculpture in the Hermitage Museum. It was acquired by Peter I through an exchange involving Saint Bridget's relics. The statue arrived without arms and later lost its arms during floods under Catherine II's reign.