“In 1968, after receiving a gift of mangoes from the visiting Pakistani foreign minister, Mao Zedong sent the fruit to the Worker-Peasant Mao Zedong Thought Propaganda Teams. Mangoes, an unfamiliar fruit at that time in China, became a temporary political symbol of Chairman Mao’s benevolence and love for the people.” — China Institute.
Rectangular mango vitrine from Beijing No. 1 Machine Tool PLant, August 1968
Small photograph of mangoes, September 1968
Mango vitrine with likeness of Mao and standard inscription: “Respectfully wishing Chairman Mao eternal life. To commemorate the precious gift presented by Great Leader Chairman Mao to the Capital Worker-Peasant Mao Zedong Thought Propaganda Teams – Mango. 5 August 1968,” c.1968-69. Glass, red enamel 20.3 x 14 x 9 cm. Papier-mâché mango, 13 cm.
Small photograph of mangoes, September 1968
Small poster of mango on porcelain plate, circa 1968 or 1969.18.5 x 25.7 cm with mat 45.5 x 45.5 cm
Wash basin with design of a mango branch, c. 1968. Industrial enamel, H 10.2 x Diam. 34.5 cm
Mug with lid and design of seven mangoes, 1968. Industrial enamel, H. 13.6 x Diam. 10.7 cm
Tray with design of mango, character for “Double Happiness,” and stenciled slogan: “With each mango, profound kindness,” 1969. Industrial enamel, H 5 x Diam. 31.2 cm
Badge: Mao in profile. “Forever Loyal to Chairman Mao.” Diam. 6.2 cm
Quilt cover with design of baskets of three mangoes, student backpacks, and convoy of trucks, 1968. Printed cotton, 201 x 78 cm
Members of the Worker-Peasant Propaganda Teams at Qinghua University cheering at the gift of mangoes, August 1968
Factory workers at Beijing Knitting Mill applauding the mango. From China Revista Illustrada, October 1968, back cover, 36.5 x 26 cm
Poster of Mao Zedong in front of a parade, 1969
Pencil box with design of mango on plate, 1968-1970
Images courtesy China Institute