Ukhtomsky, Konstantin Andreevich. Types of rooms of the New Hermitage. Conference drawings Hermitage ~ part 12

The drawing presents a meticulously rendered interior space, characterized by its grandeur and symmetry. Here we observe a large room, seemingly designed for display or reception, dominated by a monumental arched ceiling. The walls are clad in panels of deep red, punctuated by recessed niches containing framed artworks – their subjects indiscernible but contributing to the overall sense of refinement.
The architectural arrangement emphasizes perspective; lines converge towards a central point beyond an opening at the room’s far end, suggesting a continuation of space and hinting at further displays or another chamber. A large, ornate basin sits centrally within this aperture, acting as a focal point and drawing the eye deeper into the composition. A substantial table occupies the foreground, its polished surface reflecting the ambient light and contributing to the sense of opulence. Chairs are positioned around it, suggesting an area for conversation or contemplation.
The ceilings decoration is particularly noteworthy. An elaborate pattern of scrolling foliage and ornamental motifs in muted tones creates a visual richness that contrasts with the starkness of the red walls. The use of pale blues and creams within this ornamentation softens the overall effect, preventing the space from feeling overly heavy.
The floor is tiled in a geometric pattern of dark and light squares, further reinforcing the sense of order and precision. Light enters the room seemingly from an unseen source, illuminating the surfaces and creating subtle gradations of tone that enhance the three-dimensionality of the scene.
Subtly, the drawing conveys a feeling of institutional authority and cultural significance. The scale of the space, the quality of the materials, and the careful arrangement of objects all contribute to this impression. It is not merely a depiction of a room; it’s an assertion of power through aesthetic refinement – a visual statement about the importance of the institution housed within. The emptiness of the room, devoid of human presence, amplifies this sense of formality and underscores its function as a space for display rather than everyday use.