The family of Nicholas II considered relations not only with Germany, but also with England, English relatives and English culture to be very important. Empress Alexandra Feodorovna was a granddaughter of Queen Victoria, and Nicholas II himself was a cousin of King George V. The family often spoke and wrote letters and notes in English.

The children of Nicholas II loved English books with pretty pictures. The daughters of the Romanovs owned original publications in English about black cats and about white kittens, as well as about white and black puppies.

The book about black cats belonged to Grand Duchess Maria Nikolaevna.

This cute little book was very popular and even translated into Russian. Its English version named ‘The Black Cat book Little’ can be seen in the Secret Room.

Charles Robinson’s other most famous works include Alice in Wonderland (1907), Grimms’ Fairy Tales (1910), The Secret Garden (1911), and many others.

Charles Robinson did not just illustrate, but designed the layout of the entire book, including all the smallest details. He became one of the outstanding book designers.