Scott No: 3425-28
Serial number: 2005-5
Values in set: 4
Date of issue: March 5, 2005
Denomination: 320 fen
Designer: Gong Wenzhen
Size of stamps: 40*30mm
Perforation: 13*13.5
Sheet composition: 8
Printing process: Photogravure
Printing House: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing Works

This special stamp set, Magnolias, was issued on March 5, 2005. It consists of four stamps with a total face value of 3.20 yuan, designed by Gong Wenzhen, with Chen Yisi serving as the responsible editor, and printed by Beijing Stamp Printing Works using the photogravure process.

Magnolias are a traditional and prestigious ornamental flower in China, with a long history of cultivation. Their elegant and pure beauty has been cherished since ancient times. This stamp set features four distinctive species of the magnolia family, using the gongbi (meticulous brushwork) style to present the refined and graceful charm of these flowers, showcasing China's rich and precious wild plant resources and conveying the fresh beauty of spring blossoms.

Stamp Designs and Historical Background

Magnolia denudata (Yulan Magnolia)

Pure white flowers adorn the branches, with buds about to open and blossoms fully expanded, appearing clean and luminous. Blooming early in spring, it is known as the "herald of spring," symbolizing purity and noble character.

Magnolia delavayi (Yunnan Magnolia)

Soft yellow petals stretch lightly, complemented by green leaves. This rare native magnolia grows in the mountainous regions of southwestern China, with a gentle and elegant appearance, exuding a natural, wild charm.

Magnolia grandiflora (Southern Magnolia)

With large, round, white flowers and thick, glossy leaves, this evergreen species resembles a lotus. Widely cultivated as an ornamental tree, it is known for its dignified and grand appearance.

Magnolia liliflora (Lily Magnolia)

The flowers are white inside and vivid purple-red on the outside, with slender, graceful branches. Blooming before the leaves, its bright and charming colors make it a rare and precious native flower, with a lively and enchanting form.

Artistic and Design Features

The vertical format is complemented by a deep, pure blue background, which enhances the delicate and translucent quality of the petals. The gongbi style is detailed and realistic, and the photogravure printing provides soft, rich layers and clean, elegant colors. The stamps incorporate anti-counterfeiting features such as security paper, security ink, and fluorescent spray codes. The overall design is fresh and refined, combining the elegance of traditional flower painting with a botanical sensibility.

This stamp set is a special issue on the theme of ornamental flowers, suitable for thematic collections on precious flowers and traditional Chinese flower-and-bird painting.