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Italian soldier in China
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Italian soldier in China
Italian sailor or soldier in China, probably in the Italian concession in Tientsin (Tianjin). Date: C.1911
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Media ID 14118500
© Mary Evans Picture Library
Concession Legation Sailor Tianjin Tientsin Europeans
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the moment of a Italian soldier, likely a sailor, standing at attention in the Italian Concession of Tianjin (Tientsin), China, around 1911. The Italian presence in China dates back to the late 19th century when European powers began to establish their spheres of influence in the Far East. The Italian Concession, a self-governing enclave, was established in 1858 and was a symbol of Italian colonial power and influence in the region. The soldier is dressed in his full military uniform, complete with a peaked cap adorned with the Italian tricolor, a chest full of medals, and a rifle slung over his shoulder. His stern expression and rigid posture convey a sense of duty and discipline, reflecting the military might of the Italian presence in China during this period. The backdrop of the photograph is a bustling Chinese street scene, with people going about their daily business. The contrast between the European soldier and the Chinese crowd highlights the cultural and racial differences between the two groups, and the tension that often existed between them. Despite the peaceful appearance of the scene, the 1910s were a time of increasing tensions and conflicts between European powers and China, culminating in the WWI and the subsequent May Fourth Movement, which marked the end of the Chinese imperial era and the beginning of the Chinese Republic. This photograph is a fascinating glimpse into the past, offering a unique perspective on the Italian military presence in China during a time of great historical significance. It serves as a reminder of the complex and often fraught relationships between European powers and China during the colonial era, and the lasting impact of these interactions on both Chinese and European history.
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