Chinese Military Training and Armed Women Vernacular Photograph Group (10). Mid-20th century.  Group of ten vernacular photographs depicting Chinese women engaged in military training and posed with firearms, including rifles and a pistol. The images show a range of settings, from outdoor training grounds with prone rifle practice to more informal posed portraits, including one figure on horseback and another aiming a handgun. Several photographs feature young women in uniform or workwear holding rifles, suggesting organized militia or paramilitary training, likely dating to the mid-20th century period of Communist military mobilization. A few prints include Chinese characters and period scalloped borders.  A compelling and uncommon grouping documenting women in armed training contexts in modern Chinese history. Sizes vary from small snapshots to larger portrait formats.

General wear, creasing, and toning consistent with age.