Ivory box, made by Tsar Peter I, 1724. In his efforts to modernise Russia, Tsar Peter I was supported by craftsmen and professionals from the Republic. One of the Dutchmen in the service of the tsar was the physician Nicolaas Bidloo, who made Russia his home in 1702. As Peter's personal doctor, Bidloo developed a close friendship with the tsar, who gave him this box in 1724. The ivory was carved by Peter himself.