A single flight of steps of modest proportions sweeps in a gentle curve to the Upper or State Vestibule, constructed after Cameron's design and decorated in 1789. This vestibule is separated from the staircase by a wide arch supported by two telamones, executed, possibly, by Ivan Prokofyev. The powerful physique and vigorous postures of the two figures have been rendered by the sculptor in a truly masterly manner. The corners of the State Vestibule are occupied by figured stoves, and by floor lamps in carved wood, painted white over gesso to look like mouldings, with the standards shaped as palm-trees growing on rocks, and the invariable antique helmets. The walls of both staircase and vestibule are decorated with relief stucco-work presenting mediaeval armour, Roman trophies, Russian banners and Turkish trophies and standards. These motifs were inspired by the victories won by Russia in the wars of the second half of the eighteenth century.