Chinese Cultural Revolution Medallion

A small round tag with a ribbon-bow loop and a profile that barely fits.

This cultural revolution medallion is from China, and dates to the 20th century. It is metal. Propaganda posters of the era generally pictured a utopian society, with smiling farmers, brave soldiers and happy people gathered around Mao, who was cast as a benevolent father and wise teacher. A compact round medallion topped by a small bowed suspension loop. A raised head in profile faces left within a ring of laurel. A brick-like wall and a small cog shape sit beneath the shoulders. It is 1.25 inches in diameter.

Compact, decorated, and not at all shy about the bow.