Bridge/ Foyer to Hermitage Theater

The Arch on the Bridge over the Brook- a painting by Hubert Robert, 1798

The foyer is situated in the gallery constructed on the arches over the Winter Canal to the design of Yuri Velten in 1783 as a covered passage way linking the Great Hermitage and the Hermitage Theatre. The foyer decor was completed in 1902 to the design of Leonty Benois who managed to make it look unusual and refined at the same time. The gallery is decorated in the Rococo style known also as the style of the French king Louis XV. The splendid garlands of plants, scrolls and rocailles frame the inserts of paintings, cover the cove, decorate the wall panels, edge up the windows and doors. Through the large French windows supplying the gallery with bright light visitors may enjoy splendid views of the Neva River and the Winter Canal.