Chinese Mao Zedong Circular Lapel Pin

Hands clapping, a satchel at the hip, and a dotted red sky behind.

This Mao Zedong circular lapel pin 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. Wearing a utility jacket with a bag at the hip, a figure claps his hands. Rows of tiny raised dots and fine lines pattern the red background. The relief carries iridescent highlights on the chest. It is 2.5 inches in diameter.

Enthusiastic applause, rendered in very small dots.