Ukraine has received antique furniture intended to reproduce interiors, where Kyiv metropolitans of XVIII-XIX lived.

This is the last reconstruction stage of the Metropolitan’s House in Sofiya Kyivska National Reserve under the project being implemented by Rinat Akhmetov’s Foundation for Development of Ukraine (FDU) since 2005. UAH 8m have been allocated on this stage alone, the FDU’s press office reports.

The Foundation has initiated an intensive search in antiques markets in France, Germany and other European countries recently to reproduce the historic atmosphere and the interiors of former Kyiv metropolitans’ residence. The search was conducted jointly by Ukrainian and French experts guided by photos dated XVII-XIX centuries that were found in metropolitans’ chambers at Kyiv Pechersk Lavra. Thus, for instance, according to the photos, the furniture was supposed to be relatively cheap and functional, as metropolitans of that time led a strict and plain life. 

The pieces of furniture found for the Metropolitan’s House include antique cupboards, writing desks, chairs, arm-chairs, enfilades, engravings etc.

All pieces of the interior will have been delivered “home” by the end of the week. Over UAH 35m have been spent to reconstruct the Metropolitan’s House and buy new furniture.

Museum exhibition of Sofiya Kyivska National Reserve will showcase the beauty of the Ukrainian baroque masterpiece and the life led by metropolitans two or three centuries ago. 

We remind that together along with St Sofiya Cathedral, the Metropolitan’s House belongs to UNESCO World Heritage Sites List.

5 November 2008, 18:15
http://kiyany.obozrevatel.com/news/2008/11/5/49631.htm