Abstract: The subject of this research is the reflection of Russian realities of the mid XVIII century in cultural sphere. The article touches upon the problem of cross-cultural communication between Russia and France in the XVIII century: the theme of “French presence” in the Russian art and theater culture of the first half and the middle of the XVIII century. The acquired results elucidate the characteristic features of the relations between French and Russian people during this period. The research was conducted with consideration of the unity of internal and external, subjective and objective factors within the framework of the cultural-historical process. The conclusions were made leaning on the analysis of the entire range of sources use and existing research traditions. The article reveals the contribution of the French representatives of art and culture while their stay in Russia, as well as describes the forms and manifestations of their activity that in prospect affected the image of Russia. The author believes that working at the Russian Court, the French representatives imposed the vision of their country on Russia, transforming the Russian images in the French spirit. The presented materials are valuable for the study of cross-cultural communication between Russia and France in the XVIII century. This article is important and relevant in the conditions of constantly developing cultural dialogue and determination of the new vectors of cooperation between the countries.