Ukhtomsky, Konstantin Andreevich. Types of rooms of the New Hermitage. The main staircase and the lobby Hermitage ~ part 12

The artwork presents a view into a grand interior space, dominated by a monumental staircase leading towards a distant, luminous opening. The composition is structured around two massive columns that frame the central perspective, drawing the viewers eye deep into the architectural expanse. These columns are richly adorned with intricate carvings and appear to be constructed from variegated marble, their surfaces reflecting light in a manner that suggests opulence and permanence.
The staircase itself occupies a significant portion of the canvas. It ascends gradually, its steps bathed in a soft, diffused light emanating from beyond the visible end. Two figures are discernible on the stairs; one is a dark silhouette ascending, while another, dressed in what appears to be formal attire, descends with a deliberate pace. Their presence introduces a sense of human scale within this vast environment and hints at the ongoing flow of activity within the building.
The ceiling above displays elaborate ornamentation, including sculpted reliefs and decorative moldings, further emphasizing the grandeur of the space. The artist has rendered these details with meticulous precision, showcasing a mastery of perspective and an appreciation for classical architectural motifs.
A key element is the play of light and shadow. The foreground areas are illuminated by warm tones emanating from the columns, while the background recedes into a cooler, more subdued palette. This contrast creates depth and enhances the sense of vastness within the space. The luminosity at the far end suggests an opening to another area, perhaps a courtyard or garden, promising further exploration beyond what is immediately visible.
The overall impression conveyed is one of stately elegance and institutional authority. It speaks to a place designed for public display and contemplation, where art and architecture converge to create an atmosphere of reverence and awe. The deliberate positioning of the figures suggests themes of transition, movement, and perhaps even the passage of time within this enduring structure.