Scott No: 3239
Serial number:2002-22
Values in set: 2 (se-tenant)
Denomination: 1.60 yuan
Date of issue: 12th Oct. 2002
Designer: Rudolf Ciganik (Slovakia)
Size of stamps: 30*40 mm
Perforation: 11.5*11
Sheet composition: 10
Printing process: gravure-engraving combined
Printer: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing House

The stamp set is cataloged as 2002-22, titled Pavilions and Castles. It was issued on October 12, 2002. The set consists of two stamps in a combined offset and intaglio printing edition printed by Beijing Stamp Printing Works. The designer is Rudolf Cigánik of Slovakia, with engraving by Li Qingfa and Jiang Weijie. The total face value is 1.6 yuan. Each stamp measures 30×40 mm, with a perforation gauge of 11.5×11 degrees. Each sheet contains 10 stamps, printed in a horizontal continuous pair.

This stamp set is a joint issue between China Post and the Slovak Postal Service. It features representative historical buildings from both countries, contrasting an Eastern ancient pavilion platform with a European ancient castle. Using architecture as a medium, it showcases the different historical and civilizational characters of China and Slovakia and promotes cultural exchange between the two countries.

Stamp Designs and Historical Background

Bojnice Castle

Bojnice Castle is located in Slovakia. It was first built in the 12th century and is a well-known Romantic-style castle in Central Europe. The castle has undergone multiple reconstructions, blending Gothic, Renaissance, and other architectural styles. Its spires are tall, the building has rich layers, and it is surrounded by forests. The castle was once a noble residence and houses a large collection of antiques. Today it is open to the public as a museum. It is a highly representative historical monument of Slovakia and carries the medieval aristocratic architectural culture of Central Europe.

Congtai of Handan

Congtai is located in Handan, Hebei. It was first built during the reign of King Wuling of Zhao in the Warring States period, with a history of more than two thousand years. It was originally a high platform where the King of Zhao reviewed troops and enjoyed music and dance. Because many pavilions and terraces are connected together, it is called Congtai (Cong meaning "gathered"). After years of damage, the existing structure is a later reconstruction. On the high platform are pavilions with upturned eaves, accompanied by ancient pines. Congtai bears witness to the historical story of "wearing Hu clothing and shooting from horseback" and is an iconic monument of Yan-Zhao culture, carrying profound Chinese historical heritage.

Artistic and Design Features

The stamps use a combination of offset and intaglio printing. The engraved lines are solid and delicate, accurately expressing the texture of brick walls and wooden roof structures, while the offset colors enhance the architectural environment. The two stamps are printed in a horizontal continuous pair, placed side by side, presenting the European castle and the Chinese ancient platform in the same frame, creating a contrast between Eastern and Western architectural civilizations. The designs use a pen-and-watercolor style. The building outlines are clear, and the colors are antique and steady. A sturdy pine tree in the middle serves as a transition, naturally connecting the two historical buildings separated by thousands of miles. Through the dialogue of architecture, the stamp set showcases the unique ancient construction techniques of China and Slovakia, reflecting the charm of different regional civilizations.