Hau Edward Petrovich – Types of rooms of the Winter Palace. The first half of the spare. The Cabinet of the Duke M. Leuchtenberg Hermitage ~ part 03

The drawing presents a meticulously rendered interior space, likely intended as documentation rather than purely aesthetic expression. Here we see a room characterized by its formal arrangement and opulent detailing, indicative of a high-status residence. The overall impression is one of restrained grandeur and deliberate order.
The color palette is dominated by shades of green – a muted olive for the walls, deeper emeralds in the draperies, and touches of lighter hues in the upholstery. This creates a sense of coolness and serenity, while also contributing to an atmosphere of dignified solemnity. The floor is covered with a richly patterned red rug that introduces warmth and visual complexity against the predominantly green backdrop.
The artist has paid considerable attention to light and shadow. A strong source of illumination enters from the right side of the frame, highlighting the polished surfaces of the furniture and creating dramatic contrasts within the space. This careful manipulation of light emphasizes the room’s depth and volume. The chandelier suspended from the ceiling provides a secondary source of illumination, casting a warm glow across the upper portion of the room.
The furnishings are arranged with precision. A large bed draped in heavy green curtains occupies one corner, suggesting privacy and intimacy within this formal setting. Several upholstered chairs and a small table are positioned around the perimeter, creating distinct zones for conversation or reading. The desk situated near the window is equipped with writing implements and decorative objects, hinting at intellectual pursuits and administrative duties.
The architectural details are equally significant. The ceiling features elaborate plasterwork, including medallions and cornices, demonstrating the skill of the artisans involved in its construction. A doorway leads to an adjacent room, framed by a classical archway adorned with sculpted reliefs. Several paintings hang on the walls, adding layers of visual interest and suggesting the owner’s taste and cultural refinement.
Subtly embedded within this depiction is a sense of power and authority. The scale of the room, the quality of the materials, and the formality of the arrangement all contribute to an impression of wealth and status. The meticulous rendering suggests a desire to preserve and document not only the physical appearance of the space but also its symbolic significance as a representation of aristocratic life. The overall effect is one of controlled elegance, reflecting a society that valued tradition, order, and refinement.