Lot 279: A Collection of Hand-Painted Toy Soldiers and Scenic Diorama Depicting the Battle of Rorke's Drift

This set comprises a large collection of hand-painted toy soldiers and scenic elements depicting the Battle of Rorke’s Drift during the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879. The figures are produced in the traditional glossy style associated with manufacturers such as William Hocker, Trophy Miniatures of Wales, or the New Toy Soldier movement. The British contingent features infantrymen in red tunics and white pith helmets in various poses, including firing from standing and kneeling positions, alongside a mounted officer and a flag-bearer carrying the Union Jack. The opposing Zulu force is depicted with traditional hide shields and spears. The diorama is anchored by a large thatched-roof building with moulded window and door details, accompanied by several tiered sandbag defensive works. The figures are cast from a metal alloy, while the building and fortifications appear to be made from a resin or composite material. A small white label with the handwritten number 9703 is adhered to the glass display base.