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In the second
half of the 18th century a classical style, inspired by the patterns
and forms of ancient architecture, took the place of baroque. The
most brilliant representatives of classicism were Vassily Bazhenov
(Pashkov’s House in Moscow) and Matvei Kazakov (Moscow State
University in Moscow).
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Beginning in
the 19th century and, in particular, after the victory over Napoleon
in the War of 1812, Russian architecture developed a monumental
style – the so-called Russian Imperial style – that reflected the
patriotic and triumphal attitudes, which predominated in the
society. The building of the Admiralty in St. Petersburg and the
Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow are among many examples of splendid
buildings, comfortable mansions and country estates built in this
style.
In the second
half of the 19th century the rapid growth
of industry, trade and transportation stimulated by the reforms of
Alexander II opened up new horizons for the architects. The Russian
modern style began to emerge in the design of factory buildings,
terminals, hotels and banks that were springing up in the cities.
New architectural trends emerged, such as a Russian variety of “art
nouveau”, characterized by refined picturesque effects and fanciful
ornaments. The most prominent representative of this trend was
Fyodor Shekhtel who designed a number of buildings in Moscow,
including the Yaroslavsky Railway Terminal. Other architects, such
as Alexei Shchusev, who built the Kazansky Terminal in Moscow, used
stylization in an effort to reintroduce the traditions of old
Russian art.
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