To the history of preservation of oriental rarities in the Asian department

The history of preservation of artifacts in the Asian department of the Russian Empire’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is analyzed on a basis of archive materials. This previously unexplored collection was stored in the department in 1840–1860s. The goal of compiling the collection is revealed, as well as its purpose. The collection emerged because of work of the Russian Orthodox Mission in Beijing, whose members’ research contributed to the development of diplomatic relations with China. A suggestion has been made, that the objects like those that were given to different institutions, museums and factories, were preserved in the Asian department. Samples of materials and production brought from China could be used for improving of trade relations between the Russian empire and its largest neighbor. Further fate of Buddhist objects, household items, clothes and weapons related to collections of Saint-Petersburg museums.