Antoine Chenevière Books

Upon her arrival in Russia in 1744, Catherine the Great noted the lack of furniture in the imperial palaces. Within a century, however, these palaces and the new grand apartments were filled with magnificent furnishings that matched their opulent decor. This transformation marked a cultural renaissance in Russia, where decorative arts flourished, giving rise to a distinct Russian style characterized by vibrant expression, diverse forms and materials, and exceptional craftsmanship. The flamboyant style from this period has only recently gained attention in the West, with literature on the topic being scarce and primarily available in Russian. This comprehensive study is the first in English to explore the evolution of Russian furniture styles during the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, resulting from extensive research conducted in both the Soviet Union and the West. The work is richly illustrated with approximately 335 photographs, both in color and black and white, many of which were specially commissioned in the Soviet Union and are previously unseen in the West. These images showcase the talents of Russian craftsmen, while contemporary watercolors offer a glimpse into the warmth and charm of the interiors. Together, the text and photographs create a lavish portrayal of this significant era in Russian decorative art history.