Lady-in-waiting of the Imperial Court of Russia

All the ancient occupations of the women at the Court of Russia, traditionally held by boyarynias (wives of boyars), nurses, housekeepers, servants, nannies etc., were abolished and replaced by a new hierarchy inspired by Versailles Court's etiquette and German models, although many Muscovite and post-reform positions were in charge of identical functions.

The seven strict ranks were reduced to five by the mid 18th century and their names evolved as well.

During the official ceremonies, the ladies-in-waiting had to wear specific Court dresses according to a regulation of 1834 fixing the clothing, the manner and the colors allowed for each one.

A Hofmeisterin, Statsdame or Kammer-Fräulein wore a miniature portrait of the Empress on their right shoulder and were called dames à portrait, one of the most prestigious positions at Court.

The Fräulein would only wear the Empress or Grand Duchess' initials in diamonds, pinned to their left shoulder.