#manchubannerman

[steelandcotton]

Qing Bannerman The Dao was standardly slung with the hilt back in this fashion during the Qing period. Judging from this Bannerman's embroidered changpao and leopard skin jacket he is no doubt a high ranking officer. 

[steelandcotton]

The Kangxi Emperor in his Stone Blue Armor.

While later Qing Emperors wore more elaborate suits of armor, Kangxi choose to wear the same Stone Blue color armor that was later designated in the Imperial Regulations for Generals. Though Kangxi’s helmet and other metal fittings that choose be been were guilt in gold.

[steelandcotton]

[steelandcotton]

During the late Qing Dynasty, officers and soldiers of the frontier troops stationed in Ili, Xinjiang, carried guns on their backs. 清末驻守新疆伊犁的边防部队官兵，身上还背着一杆枪。

[steelandcotton]

Manchu Bannermen were expert archers, but few know that they also made widespread use of firearms. In fact, once they established their dynasty, Bannermen trained as frequently with Matchlocks as they did with their Bows. They did this both on foot and mounted.

[steelandcotton]

A High Qing Officer

Armed with a Jian. The vast majority of Manchu Bannermen carried dao, so it is quite unusual to see an official armed in this fashion.We know he is a Bannerman by the green jade thumb around his right thumb.Thumb rings were worn as a symbol of their status as Qiren. One might think that his man was left handed given that he is wearing his sword on his right hip. But the thumb ring on his right thumb indicated he was indeed right handed. Perhaps there were some social situations where those armed were required to wear their swords on the opposite hip to prevent a quick draw. If this is the case, I am unaware of such a tradition in China. My suggestion is pure speculation. It is also quite possible that the artist simple decided he liked this look better and the swords position on the right hip has nothing to do with how it was actual worn.

19th Century, Chinese School Painting.

[steelandcotton]

Though Manchu Bannermen were well known for their archery and love of the bow, they made use of matchlock muskets from the beginning of their reign. Lately, I’ve been doing a bit of research into Manchu Gunnery. This image from a French Book about the Sino-Japanese War of 1894-95. The musket this Bannerman is aiming appears to be a percussion cap type. Though the details are a bit difficult to make out. The Qing did have but snap lock matchlocks and percussion cap type muskets, but by and large stuck with the 17th century style simple level serpentine lock. Note the pre-measured loads in the bandolier at his waist and the powder flask the hangs from a strap at his back. He would have also had a primer flask.