The modern Mindovsky mansion is located on a plot that was part of the estate of state councilor Danila Volchkov in the early 19th century. Around 1903, the Moscow Trading and Construction Joint Stock Company, led by Yakov Reck, acquired this land. The plot was divided into two parts for new construction, and the old buildings were demolished. In 1903-1904, a mansion was built at 44 Povarskaya Street, occupying half of the former Volchkov estate. It was created for subsequent sale, and architect Lev Kekushev received significant funds and complete freedom in design. The exterior of the building demonstrates the influence of Franco-Belgian Art Nouveau, but it is generally considered a prime example of Moscow Modernism.
Almost all rooms of the mansion were adorned with stained glass, paintings, and stucco. Expensive materials such as marble, onyx, and Karelian birch were used in the decoration. Due to its original decor and large size, the building turned out to be very expensive, and it could not be sold for almost five years. Only in 1909 was it purchased by Moscow merchant Ivan Mindovsky. After his death in 1912, the building was inherited by his four children: Nikolai, Ivan, Iraida, and Olga. Until 1917, they did not formalize legal ownership, and the mansion became known as the Mindovsky mansion. After the revolution, the building was nationalized.
In 1972, the mansion was transferred to the Embassy of New Zealand, which treated the historical building with respect, for which it received the Moscow government award 'For Respect for Russian Culture.'
The Mindovsky mansion is considered one of Lev Kekushev's best works and reflects his mature style. A characteristic feature of the architect was the depiction of lions, which adorned the decorative pedestal of the roof and the railing of the grand staircase. Along with the mansion, a small garden, an inner courtyard, and stables were designed.
In 2017, the Department of Cultural Heritage of Moscow announced the beginning of the first comprehensive restoration of the mansion.
Comments
No comments yet. Be the first.
To leave a comment, sign in with Google.