Description: 18th Century Soldier
This is a vibrant watercolor painting titled “18th Century Soldier,” created in 2005. The work is identified by the catalog number AMRI/008.
Subject and Composition
The painting features a full-length, frontal depiction of a Mongolian soldier from the 18th century, a period often associated with the decline of the independent Mongol khanates and increasing Manchu influence. The soldier stands powerfully, holding a long, pointed spear in his right hand.
The figure is centered in the frame, commanding attention with a direct and focused gaze. The overall mood is one of stoicism and military tradition.
Attire and Equipment
The soldier is heavily armored, showcasing a historical rendering of military dress:
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Armor and Tunic: He wears a striking yellow or gold-colored protective cuirass, possibly representing a form of lamellar or scale armor, over a red-brown undergarment or coat. A large, circular metal ornament or mirror shield (Toli) is prominently placed on his chest, which was a common feature on Mongolian and Central Asian armor for both protection and decoration.
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Helmet: His head is protected by a metal helmet with a forward-facing brim and a noticeable spike or plume holder at the top, consistent with historical Mongolian helmet designs.
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Lower Garments: He wears long, wide-legged trousers or boots in a deep red and brown.
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Weapons: In addition to the long spear, a sheathed sword or saber, likely a Mongol kilij or shamshir-style curved blade, hangs from his belt and is partially visible across his left side. A bundle of what appears to be arrows or spare shafts is seen near the spear.
Style and Medium
The piece is executed in Watercolor, lending it a certain luminosity and immediacy. The colors are rich and warm—notably the bright yellow of the tunic and the deep reds and browns of the lower garments—which contrast well with the metalwork of the armor and helmet. The brushwork appears deliberate, defining the strong contours of the soldier’s posture and armor.
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Medium: Watercolor
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Date: 2005
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Dimensions: $34 \times 2513$” (The listed dimensions, especially the $2513$” measurement, may indicate a non-standard or mislabeled size.)
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Gallery ID: AMRI/008
The artwork is a modern interpretation of Mongolian military history, preserving the image and detail of a traditional 18th-century warrior.