Black Masks

A luxurious hall in an ancient knight’s castle, recently refreshed with new decor. The walls are covered with frescoes; in places, old darkened tapestries hang; around—arms and statues. Everywhere gleams gilt, mosaic colors are rich, and stained-glass panels glow with soft, translucent light. To the left and partially along the back wall are three tall windows with only half-formed outlines, half-hidden by heavy curtains embroidered in gold. The back wall, turning at a right angle, goes deep inside to the line of low double marble columns supporting the upper part of the structure. Beyond the columns opens a very bright, spacious front area; to the right are huge entrance doors. Where the wall recedes into the depth, directly opposite the viewer is a wide marble staircase with a massive balustrade decorated with sculpture; at the level of the columns, the staircase turns to the right, leading to other rooms. Above the columns, set into the wall, are several small stained-glass windows traversed by vivid, strong light.