Our Notes & References

A fresh example of this illustrated historical study by Grand Duke Nikolay Mikhaiylovich (1859–1919), an eminent historian and scholar, who published many works focusing on his ancestors, their administation and the evolution of their country. All his publications are especially noteworthy for the quality of their production – the present one being no exception, since it came out of the State printing house, which was responsible for some of the most luxurious publications in Russia at the turn of the century (such as Nikolai II’s Coronation Album).

The Grand Duke details here the functions of the institute of adjutants general at the beginning of the 19th century – about a century before his publication and, most importantly, during the Patriotic War, ie. Napoleon’s Russian campaign. Thanks to lavish illustrations and historical material, the Grand Duke also outlines some of the most prominent figures such as Baron Korf, Earl Liven, Count Vorontsov, Earl Benkendorf and V.V. Orlov-Denisov.

The title of Adjutant-General was first introduced to the Russian army by Peter the Great and was granted to those, who previously served as senior adjutants to the Emperor, Field Marshal and full generals. From 1808, the title of Adjutant-General was granted to all high rank officials that were part of the retinue of the Tsar.

Although not signed, the fine, sober binding (especially its lettering) is very much in the style of some of the best Russian binders of the time, such as Shnel and Rau.

Provenance

Avenir Nizoff (émigré, pianist, who lived in Edmonton, Canada, in the second half of the 20^th century, and gathered a large, wide-ranging library of Russian works, especially covering art, history and literature).