A unique piece of applied art
It is one of the most fascinating interiors in the Catherine Palace. Its décor, a unique work of applied art, was based on amber panels with exquisite engraving.
The interior of the Amber room
Designed by architect A.Schluter and made with superb craftsmanship by German carvers, the panels were given to Peter I as a diplomatic gift by the King of Prussia in 1716.
However, it was only in 1755 that the Rastrelli used them for the decoration of the palace. He ornamented the panels with gilded wood carvings, added mirrors, and placed four multi-colored mosaic panels in impressive amber frames.
Restoration and reconstruction after the war
During the World War II the amber panels were plundered by the invaders and have not been found to this day. In 1979 the Soviet government started the recreation of the Amber Room. In 2003 the complicated restoration was finished and the room was opened to public.
