A scarce Italian commemorative medal for the China Relief Expedition during the Boxer Rebellion. Struck in silver and measuring 41.5 mm in diameter, this example is named to Tenente Arquer Vittorio and signed Massonnet Edit., denoting French manufacture. Later addition of a ribbon mount, blue silk ribbon.
The medal commemorates the Italian involvement in the defense of Tientsin, China, on 12 June 1900, an early and critical action in the international response to the Boxer uprising. This is a private or regimental issue, not a state decoration, and is rarely encountered—especially in such fine condition and individually named.
