Station: [17] Servants' Lounge

You have reached the servants’ lounge.

This simply furnished room served as a connecting and lounge area. It was located between the king’s and queen’s chambers. Its purpose was therefore quite practical: it connected pathways, passageways, and lounge areas in the immediate vicinity of the royal apartments.

From here, you can also access the interior staff stairwell. This stairwell provides access to all floors of the wing. The room was thus not only a place of rest but also an important hub in the daily routine.

Architecturally, the room is very understated. In fact, only the fireplace defines the space. Added to this are the built-in benches, which served as temporary seating for the footmen. Apparently, no greater comfort was intended here. 

Today, the focus is on two portraits of the last crown prince and princess, Wilhelm and Cecilie. This gives the austere room a new focal point. A place of passage becomes a place of remembrance.

The portrait of Wilhelm depicts the heir to the throne in the uniform of the 1st Leib-Hussar Regiment, stationed in Danzig-Langfuhr. This uniform is very distinctive. Visible are the characteristic skull and crossbones on the fur cap, the black uniform fabric, and the silver braiding and lacing. The portrait thus emphasizes not personal intimacy, but rank, role, and military affiliation.

In contrast is the pastel portrait of Crown Princess Cecilie by Carl Langhorst. It was painted a few years after her wedding. Cecilie wears the Fabergé kokoshnik-style tiara, a gift from her Russian relatives. She also wears the brooch from Queen Elisabeth’s ruby set. This piece of jewelry is now kept in the treasury of Hohenzollern Castle.