Scott No: 2293
Serial number: J171
Values in set: 1
Date of issue: September 8, 1990
Denomination: 20 fen
Designers: Wan Weisheng
Size of stamps: 27*40mm
Perforation: 11
Sheet composition: 50 (10*5)
Printing process: Photogravure
Printing House: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing Works

The commemorative stamp International Literacy Year, catalog number J171, was issued on September 8, 1990. It consists of one stamp, produced using the photogravure process. The stamp measures 27×40 mm, with a perforation gauge of 11 degrees. Each sheet contains 40 stamps (10×4). It was designed by Wan Weisheng and printed by Beijing Stamp Printing Works.

Thematic Focus of the Set

The year 1990 was designated by the United Nations as International Literacy Year, aimed at promoting the global elimination of illiteracy and the popularization of cultural education. China has long attached importance to literacy work and vigorously promoted basic education. This stamp echoes the international theme, expressing the concept of eliminating illiteracy, popularizing knowledge, and contributing to the progress of human civilization.

Stamp Design and Historical Background

International Literacy Year

At the center is an open book, with a dove of peace above it. On both sides are silhouettes of men's and women's heads of different skin colors, and a globe pattern is inside the book. The book represents knowledge and education, the dove of peace symbolizes peace, and the people of different skin colors symbolize the joint participation of countries around the world in the literacy cause.

Artistic and Design Features

The stamp uses a decorative graphic design style. The composition is simple and lively, and the forms are generalized. The colors are fresh and soft, and the combination of elements is intuitive and easy to understand. It integrates the meanings of education, peace, and global cooperation, with a strong contemporary feel and a clear theme.