Chinese Mao Zedong Circular Lapel Pin

Standing figure in a long coat, flanked by columns of tiny gold script.

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. Seen from the side and facing right, the figure wears a heavy coat that falls to a base of gold clouds. Columns of fine gold characters run along the left of the red disc. The coat has a rich, dark finish. It is 1.75 inches in diameter.

A full-length portrait, handled with surprising delicacy.