Nikanor Grigorievich Chernetsov

The sheet has been laid down onto a card. There was a loss to the upper left corner which has now been restored. The sheet has discoloured, particularly along the edges. The sheet is covered in a layer of surface dirt and there is minor foxing in places. The sheet is hinged along the top edge. Held in a wooden frame behind glass. Unexamined out of frame. Garden:The sheet has been laid down onto a card.The sheet has discoloured, particularly along the edges. The sheet is covered in a layer of surface dirt and there is minor foxing in places, most notably in the middle of the left edge. The sheet is hinged along the top edge. Held in a wooden frame behind glass. Unexamined out of frame.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The Alexander Palace was commissioned by Catherine the Great from the leading Palladian architect of the day, Giacomo Quarenghi. Constructed as a summer residence for her favourite grandson, the future Alexander I, the elegant building was described by Quarenghi’s son in 1821: ‘In keeping with the august status of the person for whom the Palace was conceived, the architect shaped it with greatest simplicity, combining both functionality with beauty. Its dignified facade, harmonic proportions, and moderate ornamentation... are also manifested in its interiors..., without compromising comfort in striving for magnificence and elegance.’

Nikanor and his elder brother Grigory studied at the Imperial Academy of Arts where both were awarded a Gold Medal for their work. After graduation Nikanor travelled extensively in the Caucasus (1829-31), the Crimea (1833-36) and along the Volga (1838). The present pair of elevations were executed in 1839 shortly before he set off for Europe and the Middle East (1840-1843).