A unique exhibition dedicated to the history of one of the city's most remarkable industrial facilities has opened on Vasilyevsky Island in St. Petersburg. During the month, residents and visitors of the city have the opportunity to plunge into the past and look at the development of the enterprise, whose history dates back more than 160 years. The exhibition entitled “The Time Filter” will be held from July 4 to August 4 in the renovated building of the former rope shop of the Krasny Nvozilshchik plant.
On June 21, 1857, the Kunz-Chopin factory was founded. The enterprise was located on the site of the V quarter of the Vasilyevskaya part, near the current 24th and 25th lines of Vasilyevsky Island. During this period, the plant was engaged in the production of high-quality bronze products. Watches, candlesticks, floor lamps and other decorative elements adorned Saint Isaac's Cathedral, the Winter Palace and the homes of wealthy residents of St. Petersburg.
In 1875, the plant was renamed the St. Petersburg Wire and Nail Plant by L. Bergert. However, not only the name of the enterprise has changed, but the scope of activity has also expanded: additional production lines have been put into operation and new technologies have been introduced. The plant started producing wire and nails in response to the growing demand from the industrial sector.
On June 28, 1918, at the height of revolutionary changes, the plant received a new name — “Red Nailer”. This name became a symbol of Soviet industrial power and commitment to the working class. The company continued to develop, becoming a key supplier of nails and wire for the country's needs.
On May 22, 1940, the company changed its name again to become the Steel Rolling Wire and Rope Plant named after M. C. M. Molotov. At that time, the company was actively introducing advanced technologies, increasing production capacity and product range. The steel mill became an important element in the post-war reconstruction and industrialization of the country.
Since 2007, the plant has been operating under the name Petersburg Precision Alloy Plant LLC (PZPS). Based on many years of experience and production traditions, PZPS continues to produce high-quality products and occupies a leading position in the metallurgical industry. The plant has adapted to modern market requirements by introducing innovative technologies and improving production processes.
The rope shop at the Krasny Nvozilshchik plant, designed by Yakov Chernikhov, an outstanding avant-garde architect, is one of the most striking examples of Soviet constructivism. The building, recently renovated, is now recognized as a cultural heritage and is an important architectural landmark in St. Petersburg.
Yakov Georgievich Chernikhov (1889—1951) was a famous Soviet architect, graphic artist and teacher, one of the most prominent representatives of the Soviet avant-garde. He graduated from the Odessa Art College, where he received an architectural education in 1904—1914.
Yakov Georgievich left a significant mark on the history of 20th century architecture. His work has an original style and innovative ideas. While working in Leningrad, the famous architect designed buildings and structures, as well as developing curricula for architecture students. During his life, Chernikhov wrote more than 40 books on architecture and graphic design, including Architectural Fantasies (1933) and The Construction of Architectural and Machine Forms (1931).
Constructivism is an avant-garde movement in art and architecture, characterized by strict forms, functionality and the use of modern materials such as glass, metal and concrete.
Among the features of constructivism are:
Constructivism has had a significant impact on the development of such trends as functionalism, minimalism and high-tech. Despite its rigor and geometry, this style remains expressive and original, reflecting the spirit of the times and the needs of modern society.
The rope shop building has been under restoration for the past three years and has now become a modern business center. The “Time Filter” exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the history of this building and its significance for the city.
For the first time, the exhibition will feature photographs showing the daily life of the plant and its employees to the general public. Visitors will be able to see the restored building and learn its history through the prism of the people who worked here.
The exhibition is open to visitors:
Inspection is possible only as part of an organized tour group. Free tickets are available at exhibition website.
The “Time Filter” exhibition is not only an opportunity to learn about the history of one of the oldest factories in St. Petersburg, but also a chance to see the architectural heritage of Yakov Chernikhov, experiencing the spirit of constructivism and its impact on modern architecture. Don't miss the opportunity to attend this unique event and immerse yourself in history through the prism of time and space.
