The epoch of feudal Tbilisi has kept only the lay-out of old blocks of houses, ruins of citadel, several fragments of the city's fence and churches, that still play an essential role in creation of a unique silhouette of the old city...

...From the begining of XIX century, when Georgia joined the Russian Empire, a new page was opened in the history of Tbilisi. The change effected every aspect of life-political, social, economical, cultural. Feudal city little by little turned into the capitalist and "Red-tape" city (as Tbilisi was the most important administrative centre of Trans-Caucasia), and the oriental city was getting more European. Tbilisi increased significantly, new blocks of houses were built, old buildings saved from medieval invasions were chainged by new ones. Europeanization of architecture was connected with the changes that happened in the social life of city residences. Industrial objects and banks were founded, stores were opened, industrial exhibitions were held.

Social life is particularly revived. National cultural forces are gathered in Tbilisi, new magazines and newspapers, scientific organizations and artistic societies are established; national theatre starts a revival, exhibitions of painters are held. Tbilisi is getting a big cultural centre...

Academician Vakhtang Beridze
T. Gersamia from the Preface of "Old Tbilisi".

Negatives by D. Jermakov are kept in the State Museum of Fine Arts.