Soldier Figure with Rifle
Shared by
Western Bay Museum
Britain’s production of lead soldier figures was driven by imperialist narratives, militaristic enthusiasm, and market demand. Influenced by contemporary depictions of warfare in literature, propaganda, and popular media, these toys prioritized heroic and stereotyped portrayals over historical accuracy. British manufacturers, such as Britains Ltd. and later J. Hill & Co., capitalized on this trend by producing figures that allowed children to reenact battles, reinforcing narratives of conquest and empire. Modeled after earlier German toy soldiers, these figures reflected and perpetuated colonial and militarized perspectives, shaping how young audiences understood war and national identity.
Ngā whakamārama
Details
-
Title
Soldier Figure with Rifle
-
Maker
John Hill
-
Date made
c. 1930s
-
Subject
Toys, Childhood, Warfare
-
Additional information
Processed material, Metal, Lead
-
Rights
All rights reserved
-
View source record for this item
Kei hea tēnei taonga?
Where is this item held?
-
Additional information including high resolution images may be available.
-
Location
The Old Fire Station, 32 Main Road, Katikati 3129
-
Website
Whare taonga | Organisation
Western Bay Museum
Ngā here ki runga i ngā whakaahua o tēnei taonga?
What can you do with images of this item?
-
You must check with Western Bay Museum to confirm terms of use and any attribution requirements, but this is our understanding:
-
Use for private study, research, criticism, review, or education
NZ Copyright law allows for the use of copyrighted works in specific circumstances. Consider what you can do under copyright law.
-
No sharing
You can't share this image without futher permission.
-
No modifying
You can't modify, remix or add to this image without further permission.
-
No commercial use
You can't use this image to make money.
-
Text adapted with permission from Te Papa and Digital NZ
Tāpirihia he kōrero anō
Improve this record
-
Can you help us? Share names, details and stories to help enrich the collection.