The Mikhailovsky Palace

Only two of the interiors may give a complete idea of the architect’s gift and his original planning – the main vestibule of the palace and the White Room. These are the masterpieces of classic interior art.

The main vestibule includes a broad front staircase with two flights. It leads to a gallery on the next floor decorated with 18 huge Corinthian columns.

The main theme of the vestibule decoration is triumph of Russian arms given in the allegorical and emblematic interpretation. The images of the so-called “armature” are swords, shields, helmets and other ancient Roman military attributes as well as Russian two-headed eagles and laureate wreaths. The dome above the staircase pavilion is painted in reserved noble gray colours. This grisaille, i.e. monochromatic, decoration conforms to the spacious size of the room and emphasizes its monumental character.