The Working Study of Nicholas II

Nicholas II usually spent his daytime in the Working Study redesigned by Robert Melzer in the 1890s. The Emperor’s desk was covered with family pictures, writing accessories, appointment books, calendars, pipes, ashtrays, and a Monomakh’s Cape shaped miniature stamp. Opposite the desk stood a wide, Persian carpet upholstered ottoman; a small desk with a child’s armchair were added when the Heir, Alexei Nikolayevich was born. On the walls hung paintings by Alexander Benois, Alexander Makovsky, Illarion Pryanishnikov, and Peter I’s portrait by Loius Caravaque. The walnut paneled walls had built-in bookcases at the bottom. A Japanese lamp brought by Nicholas from his journey to the Far East was set on a round, Indian shawl covered table. A display of gifts from the Emperor’s children gave the room a special sense of warmth.

Neither finish nor furnishings of the Working Study have survived.