Scott No: 2868-69
Serial number: 1998-12
Values in set: 2
Date of issue: May 15, 1998
Designers: Wang Huming; Huang Li
Size of stamp:
40*30mm for Value 1
30*40mm for Value 2
Perforation: 12
Sheet composition: 50
Printing process: offset

The commemorative stamp set The Emblem of the 22nd Universal Postal Union Congress, catalog number 1998-12, was issued on May 15, 1998. It consists of two stamps, produced using offset printing. The stamps measure 40×30 mm and 30×40 mm respectively, with a perforation gauge of 12 degrees. Each sheet contains 50 stamps. The stamps were designed by Wang Huming and Huang Li and printed by Henan Post and Telecommunications Printing Factory.

This stamp set was issued to welcome the 22nd Universal Postal Union Congress to be held in Beijing in 1999. This was the first time the Universal Postal Union Congress was held in China. The stamps feature the congress's exclusive emblem, integrating ancient Chinese communication symbols with international postal elements, embodying the mission of postal services to connect the world and highlighting the historical significance of China hosting this international postal event.

Stamp Designs and Historical Background

The Emblem of the 22nd Universal Postal Union Congress

The main subject is the congress emblem. Below the emblem is the shape of a Great Wall beacon tower, cleverly transformed into an envelope form. The beacon fire becomes a flowing red graphic corresponding to the number "22," representing the 22nd Congress. Surrounding the emblem is the French inscription "22e CONGRES UPU BEIJING 1999." The Great Wall beacon fire was a means of transmitting information in ancient China, and the envelope is the carrier of modern postal services. The combination of the two symbolizes postal services transcending regions, transmitting information, and connecting the globe. The two stamps have identical designs, differing only in layout orientation and background color—one with a white background and one with a light blue gradient background.

Artistic and Design Features

The overall design is simple and modern, with highly recognizable graphic symbols and bright, steady color combinations. It integrates the traditional Great Wall cultural symbol into the international conference logo, balancing national characteristics with international expression. The pairing of horizontal and vertical formats enriches the visual variety of the set. Using minimalist logo design, it interprets the mission of postal services in communicating with the world on stamps.