Ukhtomsky, Konstantin Andreevich. Types of rooms of the New Hermitage. Hall Kolyvan vases Hermitage ~ part 12

The composition presents a grand interior space, likely intended as a display area for significant artifacts. The perspective is centered on a monumental green urn positioned prominently in the rooms core. This object immediately draws the viewers attention and establishes a focal point around which the rest of the scene unfolds.
Architectural elements dominate the visual field. Massive Corinthian columns, rendered with meticulous detail to suggest marble construction, define the space and contribute to an atmosphere of imposing scale and classical grandeur. The walls are finished in a warm pink hue, contrasted by the crisp white of the column capitals and bases. Above, the ceiling is elaborately decorated with gilded ornamentation and intricate stucco work, creating a sense of opulence and heightening the feeling of spaciousness. Light streams in from an unseen source, illuminating the room evenly and highlighting the textures of the materials.
Three figures are present within this architectural framework. Two women, dressed in attire indicative of the late 19th century, stand near the urn, seemingly engaged in quiet conversation or observation. A third figure, a male nude sculpture, is positioned to the right, adding an element of classical artistic reference and reinforcing the room’s purpose as a space for cultural display. The figures are small relative to the scale of the architecture, emphasizing their role as observers within this monumental setting rather than active participants in its creation.
The floor is patterned with geometric tiles, contributing to the overall sense of order and precision that characterizes the scene. A doorway or opening at the rear provides a glimpse into another space, suggesting an interconnectedness of rooms and hinting at the larger complex beyond.
Subtly, the painting conveys themes of cultural heritage and national identity. The classical architectural style, combined with the presence of sculptures and the implied display of valuable artifacts, suggests a deliberate effort to cultivate a sense of refinement and historical significance. The figures’ posture and attire suggest an audience experiencing this curated environment, reinforcing the idea that this space is intended for public appreciation and education. The overall impression is one of controlled beauty, emphasizing the power of art and architecture to shape perception and convey cultural values.