[1] Konstantin was a passionate collector and always hunted for masterpieces in France and Italy in order to re-sell it in Russia.

On one occasion he even sold a large portrait of Nicholas I to the tsar himself with the help of Charles de Morny, the ambassador of France to Russia.

Rudanovsky became well known among top art dealers in Paris and had a serious reputation after the sale of the Sancy Diamond.

He and Sofia Sergeyevna Trubetskaya often discussed the idea of creating a cultural centre, or a gallery where Konstantin would be able to exhibit his art collections.

This idea was very important to Konstantin and he suggested Monry to make a magnificent gift to his wife Sophia for a birthday.