Photograph of Alexander III, Emperor of Russia (1845-94) and his consort Maria Feodorovna, Empress of Russia (1847-1928) with their four eldest children Tsesarevich Nicholas (1868-1918), later Nicholas II, Grand Duke George Alexandrovich (1871-99), Grand Duchess Xenia Alexandrovna (1875-1960) and Grand Duke Michael Alexandrovich (1878-1918) at the Gatchina Palace. They are standing in a group with the palace behind and a staircase to the left. Alexander III is standing to the left with a dog in front of him. Maria Feodorovna is standing beside him to the right with her hands resting on Grand Duke Michael's shoulders. Tsesarevich Nicholas and Grand Duke George are standing behind her, with Tsesarevich Nicholas on the left. Grand Duchess Xenia is standing to the right. The photograph is annotated 'Gatchina' in the lower right corner. After the assassination of his father Alexander II in St Petersburg, Alexander III was advised to make the more isolated Gatchina Palace his main residence.