We don't normally feature hand drawn sketches or water painting illustrations of interiors here. Then, again, water paintings are not normally *this* good. These photorealistic visuals of the opulent interiors of Winter Palace in St. Petersburg were captured in watercolour by artist Konstantin Ukhtomsky in the 18th century, leaving an invaluable lesson on how too much is never enough when decorating a palace. The Malachite Hall. One of many reception rooms. An extremely grand stairway-what a way to make an entrance! The library St. George Hall-A room truly worthy of a throne. The Grand Duke Nikolai's Study. A serious room using sombre tones-very masculine. The Grand Duke obviously loved his dogs The Greek Sculpture Hall Fabulous ceiling and a timeless colour scheme. (I wonder if the dogs were allowed in here?) The Concert Hall. Imagine how magnificent this room would look lit by those fabulous chandeliers. The parquetry floor is stunning. The Coin Storage Hall Sure beats a money box. The Gallery of Jewellery When you tire of choosing jewellery you could admire that incredible ceiling. The Grand Duchess's Room Yet another way to dress a ceiling, drape it in fabric. The flower garland carpet and pink colour scheme exudes femininity. In an era when artisans were highly valued, nothing was left undecorated. From ceiling to floor no detail was overlooked and nothing was ever too much, but somehow it works and the sheer opulence and pageantry of it all can still take your breath away. via