Minifigure – Late Qing Dynasty Soldier (Veteran Irregular / “Brave”) (LEGO Compatible)

The Figure: Late Qing Dynasty Soldier (Veteran Irregular / “Brave”)

This toy minifigure represents a battle-hardened soldier or militiaman of the Late Qing Dynasty. He belongs to the same era as the previous figures but features a distinct dark blue uniform and facial details that suggest a different unit or veteran status.

• Headgear: He wears the traditional wide-brimmed Straw Hat (Bamboo Conical Hat).

  • Historical Context: This practical headgear was widely used by the “Yong” (Braves)—irregular militia units raised to fight rebellions (like the Taiping) or foreign invaders. It offered protection from the sun and rain in the field, contrasting sharply with the formal caps of officers.

• Uniform: He is dressed in a Dark Blue Tunic and Trousers.

  • Design Details: The upper chest area features a Black Patterned Yoke with contrasting White Frog Buttons (Chinese knots). This dark blue color scheme was common among various regional armies and naval infantry in the late 19th century. The uniform is simple and functional, typical of the enlisted ranks.

• Face: Unlike the fresh-faced recruits in other images, this soldier has a printed Mustache and Goatee. This facial hair implies he is an older, experienced veteran who has likely seen combat before.

• Weapon: He is armed with a Lever-Action Rifle (resembling the Winchester Model 1873).

  • Significance: The presence of this repeating rifle in the hands of a soldier wearing traditional garb highlights the “Self-Strengthening Movement” era. It represents the modernization of the Chinese military, where Western firepower was adopted while maintaining traditional Chinese dress codes.

Historical Background: During the Boxer Rebellion (1900) and the Sino-French War (1884–1885), the Qing Imperial Army was a mix of the old Eight Banners (elite Manchu troops) and the Green Standard Army (Han Chinese troops), supplemented by vast numbers of “Braves” (militia). This figure likely represents one of these irregulars or a soldier from a regional army (like the Xiang or Huai Army). They were often the backbone of the defense, using modern imported rifles to fight against foreign colonial powers.