The paper deals with the political and cultural situation in the history of Georgia between the period of the second half of the 18^th century and the beginning of the 19^th century. It was the most important epoch from the point of view of changes, when the country redirected its political orientation.

Close relations with Russia promoted penetration of European culture into Georgia. Though, the fact remains that the influence of west European culture still reached the east by various means. It should also be mentioned that Catholic missionaries merit is remarkable as well. That was one of the straight sources subject to spreading European culture in Georgia.

In this connection, trade relations with foreign countries were important as well. That helped to the interrelation of the cultures. Since the second half of the 18^th century relations with Europe acquired more active characters. Russia became the main line for Georgia. Thus European cultural traditions began entering Georgia. The lighting cultural activities of Georgian colonies in Moscow and Petersburg contributed greatly to the development of the country.

West European and Russian new trends of painting are clearly reflected in the late middle ages of Georgian monumental (Anchiskhati and Bodbe paintings) and easel paintings, such as portraits of Georgian kings and noblemen.