The collection of weapons A.A. Catuer de Bioncu. Auth. Paltusova I.N.

Nowadays, it is difficult to imagine the architectural ensemble of Red Square without an original, resembling a Russian tent, the building of the State Historical Museum. At the end of the 19th century, taking an honorary place next to the Moscow Kremlin and the Pokrovsky Cathedral, this building became a symbol of not only the “Russian” architectural style, but also Russian history. It contains the largest collection of historical monuments of Russia. This unique meeting was largely due to the gift transfer of private collections and individual monuments of national history, culture and art to the museum.

The list of donors of priceless relics is extensive. Among them are Russian historians I.E. Zabelin, A. S. Uvarov, M.P. Pogodin, A. D. Chertkov, philanthropists P.I. Schukin, A.P. Bakhrushin, A. A. Catuer de Bionkur, members of the Russian Imperial House. Traditional offerings of private collectors to Russian museums are not just a manifestation of attention to national treasures, but also an understanding of the need to preserve its historical and cultural heritage for society.