Russian Empire Flag with Eagle Patch

Russian Empire flag with Royal Eagle in the centre.

On 11 June 1858, by decree of Alexander II, the heraldic colors of the empire were approved for flags, banners and other items. It became the first State flag of Russia in 1865. The white-blue-red flag was reintroduced in 1883 but the black-yellow-white remained in use until it was fully replaced in all circumstances in 1896