The Romanov dynasty ruled Russia for 300 years until violently forced from power in the Bolshevik revolution. Now, an exhibition at the V&A in London, is displaying some of their finest imperial accessories.
The Tsars have a particular fascination for the British, says Russia expert Professor Orlando Figes, as the only medieval European kingdom never to relinquish their pubic displays of wealth and power.
"It is a monarchy that goes out all guns blazing," he says. "They aren�t just kings, they are bigger than kings, they are emperors. They crown themselves in their splendour."
In Russia's first census, Nicolas II registered himself as the owner of Russia. His coronation mantle, made using 2,691 ermine skins, is the statement of that in ceremonial dress, says Professor Figes.
But there is a darker side to the exhibition. While the aristocracy lived a life of opulence, the majority Russians lived in abject poverty, toiling as serfs under their feudal masters.
"This was a civilization resting on huge inequality of wealth and the exploitation of millions," says Prof Figes.
The lavish Romanov rule came to an end when the Bolshevik revolutionaries imprisoned Nicolas II and family in a Siberian prison camp, finally executing them on 17 July 1918.
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