Description
From the Editors of the English version This work is the result of many years of research by Liudmila Gavrilova dedicated to the attribution of foreign orders held in the Moscow Kremlin Museums. Meticulous analysis of archival documents, collaboration with museums and specialists from all over the world and extensive study of relevant historical literature have made it possible for Dr Gavrilova to reconnect treasures, anonymised by the upheavals of Russian history in the twentieth century, to their original owners. This research has also given the opportunity to present a new view on the history of the honours system of the Russian Empire and its rulers. Dr Gavrilova’s continuing research has made it possible to include significant additions and add compelling details to this edition of the monograph which was first published in Russian in 2018. Apart from a detailed history of the Russian honours system, the book includes a comprehensive full-colour catalogue of foreign orders issued before 1917 in the collection of the Moscow Kremlin Museums and an updated list of foreign orders received by Russian emperors and empresses by name and by country. Setting the development of the Imperial Russian honours systems in the context of Russia’s wider connections with Europe and beyond, from the time of Peter I, it is hoped that the work will be of interest to the professional historian, seasoned phalerist and indeed the casual reader. Dr Gavrilova is to be congratulated for her determination to bring this research to as wide an audience as possible through this English edition. Stephen Patterson, Catherine Lapinsh, Tom C. Bergroth
