Filled with portraits, miniatures, silver, arms and armor, heraldry, sumptuous embroidery and tapestries, and stunning jewelry, this colorful book explores the diplomatic, trade, and cultural exchanges between the courts of Britain and Russia from the reign of Henry VIII to the death of Charles II. Through objects seen and used at court, gifts of diplomats, and royal commissions, the book presents an overview of privileged living in 16th- and 17th-century Britain with texts by experts from the V&A and the Kremlin Museum. Illustrating a broad range of fine and decorative art from spectacular English-made silver to jewelry worn by Sir Francis Drake and textiles that emphasize the colors of daily life at court, this engaging book illuminates the intriguing lives of Elizabeth I, Charles II, Ivan the Terrible, Henry VIII, and other famed monarchs.

Tessa Murdoch is acting keeper in the sculpture, metalwork, ceramics, and glass department at the V&A.

Olga Dmitrieva is deputy director of the Moscow Kremlin Museums.