A set of Zulu soldiers

A very rare and complete set in perfect condition. The set includes 6 miniature figures of warriors in 1:32 scale (height about 5.5–6 cm). The figures are made of rubber. Each warrior is depicted in a dynamic combat or ritual pose. The figures have hand-painted elements of clothing and weapons (loincloths, shields with traditional patterns, bows, spears). Guarantee of authenticity.

The original molds and the first releases of these figures were produced in the GDR (German Democratic Republic) starting in the 1970s. In the GDR, there was a culture of creating highly detailed painted Indians, cowboys and natives (famous factories like Lineol, Elastolin, and later state-owned enterprises of plastic products).  In the 1970s and 1980s, this kit was massively imported to the Soviet Union. Later, the production of similar figures was established at some Soviet enterprises using purchased or copied molds. For Soviet children accustomed to plain flat soldiers, these voluminous, detailed painted "foreign" natives were a real shortage and a source of pride. Visually, the figures refer to the warriors of Zululand (Zulus) during the Anglo-Zulu War (1879) or the generalized image of African tribes popularized in adventure literature (novels by Louis Boussenard, Henry Rider Haggard) and cinema of the XX century. The characteristic oval cowhide shields (iloka) and combat armbands are recognizable attributes of South African warriors.