MOSCOW, February 25. /TASS/. The Royal Victorian Chain awarded by a British monarch to Russia’s last Emperor, Nicolas II, has been presented on long-term lease to Moscow Kremlin Museums from the art collection of the British Royal Family — a gesture of friendship, Russia’s deputy culture minister told a handover ceremony on Thursday.
"We are witnessing an historic moment — acquisition of a priceless relic, a symbol of friendship and cooperation between Russia and Great Britain," Vladimir Aristarkhov said. "This is especially symbolic coming on the eve of 100 years since the events of 1917 resulted in the tragic death of Emperor Nicolas II," he said.
The Order was instituted by Britain's King Edward VII in 1902 to award foreign monarchs, members of royal families and occasionally high-ranking individuals.
Moscow Kremlin Museums Director Yelena Gagarina said the chain was presented to Russia at the request of Queen Elizabeth II for unlimited lease not calling for a reciprocal gesture. If requested, however, the Russian side would return it for exhibitions or other events.
Until recently, the chain had been in the private collection of Russian Academician Andrei Khazin, having been sold in 1922 after relics from the Moscow Armory Chamber were conveyed to Gokhran, administrators of the state fund of precious metals and precious stones.
The chain saw new light of day during preparations for the 2015 "European Orders of Knighthood" exhibition in the Moscow Kremlin and became British Crown property again under rules governing the Order on the death of the person holding the decoration.
Visitors can view the chain among exhibits of the Armory Chamber.