Tsar Nicholas I (1796-1855), in black military uniform, gold-embroidered red collar, gold epaulettes, wearing the blue moiré sash and breast-star of the Imperial Russian Order of St. Andrew, and a second breast-star, possibly that of St. Vladimir, and the badge of the Imperial Miliatary Order of St. George.

Third son of Emperor Paul I and Maria Feodorvna, his accession in 1825 following the death of Alexander I and the disqualification of Constantine, the early months of his reign were dominated by the Decembrist revolt, which was crushed with shocking severity. His reputation as the 'Gendarme of Europe' survived his reign until his death during the Crimean War was popularly caused by 'Generals January and February'.