Chinese Mao Zedong Lapel Pin

Cap, a thick scarf and a row of little blossoms along the bottom.

This Mao Zedong lapel pin is from China, and dates to the 20th century. 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. Three-quarter face in a soft cap, wrapped in a heavy scarf, fills a large part of a red disc. Fine rays radiate from behind. Small silvery blossoms and stems curl along the lower edge. It is 2 inches in diameter.

Warm, wrapped up, and quietly proud of the flowers.