Early Years and Development of Scientific Interests of Petr Petrovich Pokryshkin: Origins of Mastery of the Architect and Restoration Expert

The article presents the study of professional development of Petr Petrovich Pokryshkin (1870–1922), Academician of Architecture, professor, r estoration expert of the Imperial Archaeological Commission. The research makes a valuable contribution to the study of the master’s biography, emphasizing the importance of his early scientific interests that later played a significant role in the development of P. P. Pokryshkin as the leading a rchitect and expert in c onservation and restoration of the cultural heritage in Russia. The main research methods include documentary analysis based on the study of archival documents, along with chronological and retrospective methods. Based on t hese methods, a historical reconstruction of the educational period in the life of P. P. Pokryshkin at Irkutsk Technical College and then at the Imperial Academy of Arts was done, with emphasis on the formation of his professio nal skills, artistic taste and enthusiasm for church architecture and restoration of t he cultural h eritage monuments. The key factors that determined Pokryshkin’s scientific interests have been identified, including family upbringing, influence of the educational environment, development of his passion for conservation and restoration work during his trips to foreign countries. This leads to the conclusion that the P. P. Pokryshkin’s personality formed as a productive combination of his innate talent, pursuit of knowledge and diligent work. His comprehensive artistic, historical and technical education allowed P. P. Pokryshkin to become a versatile specialist in the field of protection of historical and cultural heritage and museum work. His background was the basis for his future scientific research and many creative achievements, opening up broad prospects for his career in public service.