Thank you, RM, for noticing. Those babushkas are a national treasure. The only problem, and it is not theirs, is that they, for the most part do not speak anything other than Russian. So, if one does not speak the language, it is worth it having someone with you who does. They are generous and happy to share their vast knowledge. They do not just sit around doing nothing, they love people to ask questions. This true in every palace/museum I have been in in Russia.
I was at Gatchina once and asked if these beautiful raspberry tapestries were reproductions, they were pristine, looked brand new. Well, she explined how they were saved and stored, let me feel the fabric, front and back [!] discussed their history, not found in the guide book and told us how to go to the restoration rooms to learn more.
Another, at the AP explained the GDs uniforms on display in great detail. How most people misidentified which belonged to which GD. And that they were rotated to prevent too much fading. She also directed us to the fabric restoration rooms at the Hermitage, where most of the work is done. My friend/guide did not know how cooperative these wonderful ladies were and he lives there !
Tour groups do not give you enough time to do this, but a private visit is well worth it.
