In 1832, Karl Beggrov accepted the title of Academician of Scenography for his image of the Mikhailovsky Palace. The artist depicted the architecture of the building in detail and captured vibrant life near its walls — approaching carriages and horsemen, talking passersby.

The Mikhailovsky Palace was named after its owner — Grand Duke Mikhail Pavlovich, son of Paul I. The palace was built in six years — from 1819 to 1825. Emperor Alexander I granted the palace as a dateless hereditary possession to his younger brother.

The construction cost resulted in seven million rubbles; however only four million were spent on luxurious interiors. On the second floor, Rossi created a suite of state drawing rooms with mirrors, stucco mouldings, murals, carved and gilded furniture. The floors were covered with precious wood parquet; in addition, it was the first time ever that satin wallpapers were used for decoration.

In the 19th century, the Mikhailovsky Palace was an important cultural centre of the capital. Balls, receptions, the salon meetings of Grand Duchess Elena Pavlovna, the wife of the prince, were held here. The palace was visited by poets, artists, and travellers. This is where in 1858 Anton Rubinstein started the classes of the first Russian Conservatory (with the support of the Princess).