Scott No: 2380-81
Serial number: 1992-2
Values in set: 2
Date of issue: February 20, 1992
Designers: Yin Huili
Size: 31*52mm
Perforation: 11.5
Sheet composition: 40
Printing process: offset

The special stamp set Storks, catalog number 1992-2, was issued on February 20, 1992. It consists of two stamps, produced using the photogravure process. The stamps measure 31×52 mm, with a perforation gauge of 11.5 degrees. Each sheet contains 40 stamps. The stamps were designed by Yin Huili and printed by Beijing Stamp Printing Works.

Thematic Focus of the Set

This set features two rare and endangered stork species in China: the black stork and the white stork. Both are large wading birds and national first-class protected animals, occupying important positions in the wetland ecological chain. Storks have symbolized peace and auspiciousness in traditional culture since ancient times. The stamps present the black and white storks in contrast, popularizing species knowledge, showcasing their elegant postures in shallow water habitats, and raising public awareness of wetland ecology and endangered bird protection.

Stamp Designs and Historical Background

Black Stork

The image depicts a black stork standing on a shallow shoal. Its upper body has black feathers with a purple-green metallic luster, its chest and belly are pure white, and its red beak and red legs are striking. The black stork mostly breeds in mountain valleys and plateau wetlands. It is highly vigilant and has a very small population, making it a flagship bird under key protection in China.

White Stork

The image shows a white stork standing above the water ripples. Its main feathers are pure white, with black feathers on the wingtips, and its form is slender and expansive. In European culture, the white stork symbolizes the auspicious arrival of children. In China, it mainly breeds in the northeast and winters in the south, highly dependent on freshwater wetland environments.

Artistic and Design Features

The set uses a realistic watercolor style. The background is a simple shallow shoal with water ripples, and the tones are clean and soft. The two storks face right and left respectively, echoing each other, with their postures facing each other as if in conversation. Each stamp is marked with the corresponding Latin scientific name, combining scientific accuracy with visual appeal. The vertical format is well-suited to expressing the slender and elegant forms of storks. It is a cleverly designed set in the category of animal stamps.