The role of scientific and artistic intelligentsia in the salvation of cultural values (1917–1927)

Abstract

The article deals with the actual problem of attitude to cultural heritage after the change of the model of social development in Russia in 1917. The contradictory processes of registration and preservation of historical and artistic values are analyzed. Based on archival sources, the activities of the All-Russian Board for the Protection of Monuments of Art and Antiquity and its local branches are shown. The role of scientific and artistic intelligentsia in saving cultural values is emphasized. The characteristics of such representatives as V.N. Peretz, M.N. Tikhomirov, K.K. Romanov, N.G. Porfiridov, L.A. Durnovo, et al are given. It is indicated that many cultural devotees in the difficult post-revolutionary period helped to preserve historical and cultural monuments with their modest work. Using their example, a collective image of such ascetics is given, the most striking features of which were the deepest intelligence, high professionalism, selfless service to society and culture, complete absence of any mercantile interests, extraordinary dedication to their work and deep awareness of their mission to save cultural values, perseverance and perseverance in its implementation. It is concluded that specialists trained in this field were involved in the rescue of artistic and historical values, thanks to which it was possible to preserve a significant part of Russia’s cultural heritage and its richest traditions.