The State Hermitage Museum: Exhibitions

Paul I (1796-1801)

After Catherine II's death in late 1796, Paul I occupied his mother's apartments and gave orders that the palace be called the "Winter Castle". His wife, Empress Maria Fiodorovna, remained in her apartments overlooking Palace Square. Paul did not like the Winter Palace. His mind was on the creation of a new residence - St Michael's (Mikhailovsky) Castle. Still, he asked his favourite architect, Vincenzo Brenna, to rework the throne dais in the St George Hall: the allegorical figures supporting a shield bearing Catherine II's monogram were replaced by a marble relief depicting St George.

Under Paul I balls and receptions were rarely held in the palace, nor were they as lively and crowded as previously. Those invited to the balls performed old-fashioned dances that the Emperor recommended although he did not join in himself. The occasions were enlivened somewhat by Empress Maria Fiodorovna, whose personal charm was noted by all her contemporaries. On 1 February 1801 Paul, his family and courtiers moved into St Michael's Castle, where in the early hours of 12 March that same year he was killed by conspirators. He was succeeded by his son Alexander.

Portrait of Paul I the Crown of the Grand Master of the Order of Malta
Stepan Shchukin
Larger view

Throne with a Footstool from the St George Hall of the Winter Palace
Christian Mayer
Larger view