16: The Grand Hall

In the early 18th century the hall was used for official ceremonies, theatrical performances and family festivities. In 1743–44 it was reconstructed as a church for the Cadets Corps. The interior design seen today was produced in 1768–87. This large state room with two rows of windows was designed in the early Classical style. The side walls are adorned with double pilasters and arched niches; the end walls — with porticoes in the shape of triumphal arches. There are gilded stucco ornaments on the ceiling. The strict rhythm of the pilasters, the combination of light colours with gilding, carved and gilded wall-lamps and marble vases add to the magnificence of the state room. Of special interest are standard lamps with figurines of Cupids (1714–17), the Parnassus tapestry (Gobelins factory, Paris, 1772) and a unique musical instrument combining a mechanical organ with a clock and a keyboard organ for performing music at home.