Scott No: 1886-1890
Serial number: T83
Values in set: 4
Date of issue: November 18, 1983
Denomination: 106 fen
Designers: Wan Weisheng
Size of stamps: 40*30mm
Perforation: 11*11.5
Sheet composition: 50 (5*10)
Printing process: Photogravure
Printing House: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing Works

T83 "Swans" special stamps were issued on November 18, 1983. The set consists of 4 stamps, printed by photogravure, designed by Wan Weisheng, and printed by the Beijing Stamp Factory.

Theme of the Set

The swan is a rare waterfowl of great ornamental value, and the mute swan is the main subject depicted in this set. The creation of this set was prompted by an incident in which swans at Yuyuantan were harmed. It aims to arouse public awareness of wildlife protection, present the elegant and noble life posture of swans, and convey the concept of cherishing living creatures and safeguarding nature.

Stamp Designs and Historical Background

Playing in the Water

The image shows a mute swan spreading its wings in clear lake water, with a striking red beak and pure white feathers, and ripples spreading in layers, capturing the lively moment of a swan playing in the water alone.

Lovers

Two swans lean toward each other on the water's surface, their curved necks joining to naturally form a heart shape. The tranquil lake water sets off the image of the two leaning on each other—the most classic picture of the entire set.

Roaming

Four swans line up in a row and swim leisurely across the lake, their reflections swaying with the ripples. The flock swimming together is peaceful and serene, displaying the swans' state of group activity.

Flying

A flock of swans spreads their wings and rises into the sky, flying in formation between the blue sky and emerald waves, with wings extended and a vast momentum, fully displaying the swans' posture of free, high flight.

Artistic Design Features

The set adopts the expressive technique of watercolor painting, with a transparent and warm blue-toned background, integrating the lake water and skylight into the picture. The four stamps successively present playing in the water, accompanying each other, swimming in a flock, and flying high, completely presenting the different life forms of swans. This is a representative work that Wan Weisheng valued highly; its theme and meaning are moving, and it is a classic stamp of China's early wildlife protection publicity.