Scott No: 1998-99
Serial number: T114
Values in set: 2
Date of issue: August 30, 1985
Denomination: 88 fen
Designers: Ren Yu
Size of stamps:
27*40mm for Value 1;
60*27mm for Value 2
Perforation: 11
Sheet composition:
56 (8*7) for Value 1;
40 (5*8) for Value 2
Printing process: Photogravure
Printing House: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing Works

J115 "Bicentenary of the Birth of Lin Zexu" commemorative stamps were issued on August 30, 1985. The set consists of 2 stamps, printed by photogravure, designed by Ren Yu, and printed by the Beijing Stamp Factory.

Theme of the Set

Lin Zexu was a great national hero of modern times and a pioneer who opened China's eyes to the world in modern history. This set commemorates the bicentenary of Lin Zexu's birth, remembering his historic feat of presiding over the destruction of opium at Humen and resolutely resisting the poison of opium, carrying forward his patriotic spirit of cherishing the homeland and fearing no power, and at the same time showcasing his foresight in actively learning about the world beyond China's borders and seeking new knowledge.

Stamp Designs and Historical Background

Portrait of Lin Zexu

The image is a portrait of Lin Zexu, with his famous line in the background: "If it benefits the country, I will risk life and death; how could I avoid it because of personal fortune or misfortune?" inscribed by Fei Xiaotong. This poem is a portrayal of his patriotic feelings and highlights his lofty integrity of putting the country first and disregarding personal fortune or misfortune.

Destruction of Opium at Humen

The image is taken from the relief "Destruction of Opium at Humen" on the Monument to the People's Heroes, recreating the grand scene of destroying opium beside the opium-destruction pools. The destruction of opium at Humen was a landmark event in modern China's struggle against aggression, demonstrating to the world the Chinese people's determination to resist opium and defend national dignity.

Artistic Design Features

One stamp is a vertical portrait, plain and dignified, highlighting the figure's spiritual integrity; the other is a horizontal composition reproducing the original relief, preserving the weighty, antique texture of the stone carving. The two stamps, one static and one dynamic, have the portrait and the historic feat echo each other. The tones are steady and solemn, and the narrative is clear. It is a classic set of commemorative stamps on a patriotic theme.