The well-established formula of «sciences and arts» contained the main principle of the knowledge structure of the eighteenth century, i.e. the combination of science and practice, science and technology, which meant a special place for the craft workshop as an experimental production space. At the same time, craft workshops, i.e. art chambers at the Academy of Sciences, turned into experimental laboratories of their time, where experimental science took shape. It marked the beginning of the industrial revolution, where fundamental (theory) and applied (practice) science in the development of industry and the entire economy played a decisive role. Peter I started a trend that is clearly visible today, which aimed to promote scientific achievements for the sphere of industry, using the creative potential of scientists, “artists”, artisans, and those referred to as technologists and engineers today. The study employs the methods of social topology.