The Russian model of the European Castrum doloris. Decoration of the Imperial Funeral halls in 18th-century Russia

Abstract

This article discusses the main decorative principles of Castrum doloris for the Russian emperors in the 18th century. The author applies a complex method, which is based on the academic reconstruction of the once-grandiose mourning ensembles. In preparation for the burial of Peter the Great, a certain model of funeral decoration was created and was preserved in Russia throughout the 18th century. The design of mourning ensembles followed the general laws of the ceremonial culture of that period, and corresponded to the stylistic development of art. The article introduces new materials and factual data, and clarifies certain issues of terminology.