Memorable dates of Russia: State Hermitage Museum presented the battle canvas “The Battle of Smolensk”

In the framework of the celebration of the 200th anniversary of the victory in the Patriotic War of 1812, the Hermitage continues to present the battle paintings by P. von Hess in request of Nicholas I in honor of the most important events of the Patriotic War of 1812. From August 17, 2012 the painting “The Battle of Smolensk” is presented at the Armorial Hall of the Winter Palace.

The battle of the united Army against the Army of Napoleon took place on August 17 (August 5, Old Style) 1812. After the two-day battle Smolensk was abandoned, and the Russian Army continued its retreat to Moscow.

Now there are nine canvases from the series ordered by Emperor Nicholas I. The audience will see them on the anniversary of the Battle – at Vyazma, Borodino, Tarutino. The whole cycle – till the French retreat across Berezina – will be shown till December 25, when the museum will open several exhibitions, dedicated to the Patriotic War of 1812.