Minifigure – Late Qing Dynasty Army Commander (General) (Imperial New Army High Command) (LEGO Compatible)

Character Identification

Specific Name: Late Qing Dynasty Army Commander (General) (Imperial New Army High Command – MTUV098)

The text on the image explicitly labels this figure as “MTUV098 Qing Dynasty Army Commander”. This figure represents a high-ranking General or Field Commander of the modernized “New Army” (Lujun), distinguished by his accessories representing the authority of the Emperor.

Visual Description

This custom-printed minifigure features specific details denoting leadership and national identity:

• The Imperial Standard (Key Accessory): The most defining feature of this figure is the large yellow flag he stands with. This is the Yellow Dragon Flag (Huanglong Qi), which was the national flag of the Qing Empire from 1889 to 1912. The flag depicts a blue azure dragon chasing a red pearl on a yellow field, symbolizing the power of the Emperor.

• Uniform: Like his subordinates, he wears the Dark Blue Double-Breasted Tunic of the New Army. The gold/brass buttons and detailed collar embroidery reflect the modernization efforts of the late 19th century.

• Face: The figure features a Mustache and Goatee, distinct from the younger soldiers. In Chinese culture and military hierarchy of the time, facial hair was often associated with age, wisdom, and seniority.

• Headgear: He wears the traditional Official’s Hat with a red finial (knob).

• The Queue: The rear view confirms he retains the Manchu Queue (Braid), which was mandatory for all male subjects until the fall of the dynasty.

• Legs: He wears matching blue trousers and black boots.

Historical Background

• The Yellow Dragon Flag: For centuries, yellow was a color reserved exclusively for the Imperial family. Adopting a national flag was a reluctant step taken by the Qing court to align with international diplomatic norms and modern warfare (to identify ships and armies).

• The Commander’s Role: A commander in this uniform would have been part of the Beiyang Army or similar modern units trained by Western or Japanese advisors. These generals eventually became the powerful warlords who dominated China after the Qing Dynasty collapsed in 1912.

• Symbol of Authority: Holding the flag signifies that this figure is not just an officer, but a representative of the state and the monarchy on the battlefield.