Digital museum showcasing the collection of worldwide legends over the years! 千古不朽博物館展示多年來收藏的世界傳奇故事！
China Boxer Rebellion Withmedal Postcard
Item number: C23
Year: AD 1903
Material: Paper
Size: 96 x 145 mm
Provenance: Private Collector, Singapore, 2022
This item is a medal postcard issued after the occupation of Beijing by the German forces in AD 1903, amidst the Siege of the International Legations. This specific version pertains to the Shandong version. The frontal side prominently features an intricate depiction of a Chinese sailing ship in Jiaozhou Bay. The upper section illustrates both the obverse and reverse sides of a China Medal issued by Germany. This medal was established in the year AD 1901 by Emperor Wilhelm II of Germany to commend the German military forces serving during the Boxer Rebellion in China.
The obverse of this medal features a depiction of a German eagle standing atop a Chinese dragon, symbolizing the German Empire. Surrounding this imagery is a laurel wreath, while the reverse side bears the inscription “W” with a German crown above it. The periphery is adorned with a laurel wreath and inscribed with “DEN SIEGREICHEN STREITERN 1900 CHINA 1901,” commemorating the victorious warriors during the conflict in China in the year AD 1900 and AD 1901.
The frontal aspect of the postcard displays German inscriptions in the left and right margins, respectively stating “Greetings from Jiaozhou” and “Exquisite Chinese-made traditional sailboat.” On the reverse side, there is an imprint of text related to the Universal Postal Union.
The German occupation of Beijing and Jiaozhou Bay occurred from the year AD 1900 to AD 1901, against the backdrop of the Boxer Rebellion—a movement opposing foreign influences and Christianity. The Eight-Nation Alliance, which included Germany, entered Beijing to safeguard their citizens and interests. In August AD 1900, they captured the city and inflicted severe damage upon foreign embassies.
Germany, as a member of the Eight-Nation Alliance, actively participated in this military intervention. Following the occupation of Beijing, German forces took control of the city to ensure security. Simultaneously, they also seized Jiaozhou Bay, exerting a profound impact on the local populace and culture. The German Expeditionary Medal and its representation on this postcard serve as historical witnesses to this period, reflecting the historical significance of the events that unfolded during that time.
