Memory of Azov, Imperial Easter egg at Kremlin Armoury, Russia.
Memory of Azov is an ornate Easter egg carved from green stone and decorated with diamonds, rubies, and gold Rococo details on its surface. Inside rests a detailed miniature replica of a warship made from gold and platinum, positioned on aquamarine to suggest water.
This egg was commissioned in 1891 by Tsar Alexander III as an Easter gift for his wife to honor a significant family journey. The commission followed a major voyage undertaken by the couple's sons to distant eastern lands.
The name refers to a famous Russian Navy ship, showing how craftsmanship once told family stories through objects. The tiny vessel inside was a personal keepsake for the Tsarina, connected to her sons' travels.
The egg is on display in the Kremlin Armoury Museum's permanent collection in Moscow, where you can view it alongside other imperial eggs. Daytime visits work best for seeing the fine details of the craftsmanship clearly.
The master craftsmen built working anchor chains and tiny platinum lifeboats into the ship replica, a detail many visitors overlook. These technical refinements show how far the artisans went to make the miniature vessel feel alive.
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