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Armor-plated take on Russian history
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AS one of the world’s greatest architectural ensembles, the Kremlin in Moscow is a rich repository of historical relics, cultural monuments, and works of art — a treasure trove of state regalia, antiques, arms and armor mainly from the collection of the Tsars and their aristocracy.
“The Armor Treasury of the Russian Sovereigns,” an exhibition on loan from the Moscow Kremlin Museums, is the first exhibition in China dedicated to the armory art of the Tsars.
It features some 120 sets of parade, ceremonial and battle weapons and armor, exploring the evolution and artistic features of the Russian sovereign’s armory during the 17th and 18th centuries, and giving an insight into the sovereign’s court rituals and diplomatic strategies.
“Visitors can appreciate the magnificent examples of Russian master armorers’ craft, as well as the military rarities through their collaborations with foreign masters from Iran, Turkey and India,” said Yang Zhigang, director of the Shanghai Museum, where the exhibition is presented in the city.
“In addition, the stories of great sovereigns, including Peter the Great and Empress Catherine II, are narrated with regard to their historical achievements and policies through their personal arms and weapons,” said Yang.
The works on display vary from a hair jewelry gift from Ottoman Sultan Abdul-Hamid I to Catherine II, to a portrait of Catherine II, the uniform coat of Emperor Peter III, a flintlock, a helmet and chain armor.
From the earliest times costly weaponry and armor were regarded among the most highly prized hereditary possessions of the grand dukes of Muscovy.
In 1509, the first mention of the head of armory at the Muscovite court appeared.
Prized possessions
After Russia endured the “Time of Troubles,” of famine and unrest, Tsar Mikhail Romanov had to replenish the devastated treasury and arsenal following the restoration of statehood and order.
During the 17th century, Russia experienced the impact of the European gunpowder revolution which saw the hierarchy of armorer’s specialties in the Kremlin workshops undergo radical change.
Over the centuries, a unique collection of arms and armor were brought together within the walls of the Moscow Kremlin Museums.
“These objects are connected with many great historical figures. They reflect the trials and tribulations in the evolution of the Russian Empire and the ruling dynasty of the Romanovs,” said Elena Gagarina, general director at the Moscow Kremlin Museums.
“It is a mirror of Russian life and court culture, which recalls the splendid processions of the Tsars and emperors, the hunting pursuits and amusements of once omnipotent autocrats, their military campaigns and palace ceremonies.”
Date: Through October 10,
9am-5pm
Venue: Shanghai Library
Address: 201 People’s Avenue
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