The Withdrawing Room

Like any other grand cottage, Alexander House has a Withdrawing area formulated and built as the room guests withdraw to after a dinner fete, intended for the women of the house to have conversations, play cards, or entertain one another with music. At the same time, the men remain in the dining room or retire to the Library or smoking room to discuss business affairs, drink, and smoke. The Withdrawing Room serves as the social center of the house but only for adults. At Alexander House, the Rostislavovichs hold fast to the traditions and history of this room with its heavy curtains with elaborate fringe trims, 19th-century Staffordshire china figurines from Great Britain, and delicate china figurines from Russia. The Ivory and soapstone collection belongs to Mikhail's family from the 18th and 19th centuries. While the bronze sculptures of the Mountain Sheep and Wolfe are 20th-century pieces. One of the most interesting pieces is that of Michale Angelos Moses. Another curious collection came from Japan and China from his family's trip at the end of the 18th century. Crystal libation serving pieces and silver tea service are mixed throughout the room with original oil paintings by European and local artists. These rooms are meant to impress your guests and tell your family story.