Exterieur van het Anitschkovpaleis c. 1880 - 1900

This photograph captures the exterior of the Anitschkov Palace in St. Petersburg, its photographer J. Daziaro. It’s an image that raises questions about power, representation, and the role of institutions in shaping society. Built in the mid-18th century, the Anitschkov Palace served as a residence for members of the Russian imperial family. The palace itself became a symbol of autocratic power during a time when social inequalities were stark. The careful composition, architectural details, and the overall grandeur of the palace create a visual statement of authority and permanence. Daziaro’s photograph, as a visual record, participates in the construction and dissemination of this image. By exploring archival materials, architectural plans, and social histories, we gain a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between art, power, and society in 19th-century Russia. The meaning of art is contingent on its social and institutional context.