Between 1885 and 1916, Carl Fabergé created fifty extraordinary jewelled Easter eggs as gifts from Russia's last two emperors to their wives. These magnificent objects have become some of the most recognisable symbols of the Romanov Empire, celebrated for their remarkable craftsmanship, ingenuity and artistic beauty.

Fabergé and his designers enjoyed almost complete artistic freedom, with just three requirements: each creation had to be egg-shaped, contain a surprise to delight its recipient and be entirely different from its predecessors.

The results were astonishing, ranging from traditional Russian designs to Art Nouveau, crafted from precious enamelled gold, gemstones and carved hardstone.

In this richly illustrated lecture, Toby Faber explores the artistry and imagination behind these remarkable treasures, revealing how their designs reflect the personalities, splendour and eventual decline of the Romanov dynasty.

Drawing on his book Fabergé's Eggs: One Man's Masterpieces and the End of an Empire, Toby brings together decorative art, royal history and the extraordinary stories behind these celebrated creations.

Lecturer: Toby Faber

Toby Faber is an experienced lecturer, author and public speaker who has been accredited by The Arts Society since 2012.

After studying Natural Sciences at Cambridge, his career included investment banking and management consultancy before becoming Managing Director of Faber and Faber, the publishing company founded by his grandfather. He remains on its board and is also Chairman of Faber Music and a director of Liverpool University Press.

He is the author of several books, including Stradivarius: Five Violins, One Cello and a Genius, Fabergé's Eggs and Faber & Faber: The Untold Story, as well as the novel Close to the Edge.

Date: Friday 19th March 2027
Time: 10:30 am
Venue: The Rufus Centre, Steppingley Rd, Flitwick, Bedford MK45 1AH

Please arrive a little earlier to allow time to check in and be seated before the lecture begins.

We look forward to welcoming you.