Scott No: 2833-38
Serial number: 1998-3
Values in set: 6
Date of issue: February 19, 1998
Designers: Zou Jianjun
Size: 30*50mm
Perforation: 11.5
Sheet composition: 32
Printing process: gravure

Issued on February 19, 1998, this commemorative stamp set consists of six stamps printed in photogravure. Each stamp measures 30×50 mm with a perforation degree of 11.5. There are 40 stamps per full sheet. Designed by Zou Jianjun and printed by Beijing Stamp Factory.

Released to mark the first anniversary of Comrade Deng Xiaoping's passing, the set selects classic images from different stages of his life, covering his revolutionary years, the early days of the People's Republic and the great course of reform and opening-up. It pays tribute to the chief architect of China’s reform and opening-up and modernization, remembers his immortal contributions to the country and nation, and embodies the profound grief of the whole nation.

Stamp Patterns and Historical Background

Portrait of Comrade Deng Xiaoping

The portrait of Comrade Deng Xiaoping, set against green pines. The pine tree symbolizes perseverance and immortality, expressing people’s eternal remembrance and respect for the great man.

Deng Xiaoping During the Liberation War

The pattern shows Deng Xiaoping in military uniform in the Liberation War period, reproducing his poised and resourceful bearing as he devoted himself to the cause of people’s liberation.

With Comrade Mao Zedong

The picture records a photo of Deng Xiaoping and Mao Zedong taken in the 1950s. In this period, he assisted in various construction work at the Party Central Committee and witnessed the exploration of China’s early construction.

Deng Xiaoping, Chairman of the Central Military Commission

The image captures the moment when Deng Xiaoping reviewed troops. It reflects his efforts to modernize the military and consolidate national defense in his capacity as Chairman of the Central Military Commission.

Speech at the 35th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China Celebration

The frame captures the scene of the 35th National Day celebration on Tiananmen Rostrum in 1984. Deng Xiaoping waved to the crowd, presenting the vigorous outlook of the country in the early stage of reform and opening-up.

Important Talks During His Southern Inspection Tour in 1992

The pattern recreates the scene of Deng Xiaoping’s Southern Talks in 1992. These talks further emancipated people’s minds and pushed China’s reform and opening-up forward continuously.

Artistic Design Features

Based on historical photographs, the stamps feature solemn and simple visuals. The first five stamps are decorated with yulan magnolia at the bottom. Yulan magnolia was Comrade Deng Xiaoping’s favourite flower, symbolizing noble character. The portrait stamp uses pine trees as background to set a solemn and profound commemorative tone. With restrained and heavy colours, the design faithfully retains the texture of historical photos. The series of portraits spanning decades condenses the magnificent life of the great man.