RUDN Journal of Russian HistoryRUDN Journal of Russian History2312-86742312-8690Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia named after Patrice Lumumba (RUDN University)4072V.P. Meschersky salon: informal relationship and patronage within the Russian bureaucracy world (end of 19th - beginning of 20th centuries)LeonovM MSamara Municipal Institute of Management-Samara Municipal Institute of Management15042008411813007092016Copyright © 2008, Leonov M.M.2008The paper discusses the phenomenon of patron-client relationship and social exchange in Russian noble salons (end of 19th - beginning of 20th centuries). M. Leonov argues that Prince V.P. Meschersky' salon functioned as an exchange network where actors were connected by a broker. There were often held meetings opened for the top bureaucracy and the representatives of the educated society. By means of the salon many visitors could have acquired promotion for top positions, including positions in ministries, as well as different economical privileges.