Scott No: 3506-7
Serial number: 2006-18
Values in set: 2
Date of issue: June 20, 2006
Denomination: 160 fen
Designer: Wang Huming
Size of stamps: 30*40 mm
Perforation: 13.5*13
Sheet composition: 16
Printing process: Photogravure
Printing House: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing Works

This stamp set was issued on June 20, 2006. It consists of two stamps with a total face value of 1.60 yuan, designed by Ma Gang, with Shi Yuan serving as the responsible editor, and printed by Beijing Stamp Printing Works using the photogravure process.

This is a special stamp set jointly issued by China and Poland, featuring representative ancient gold and silver masterpieces from both countries. It showcases the distinct precious metal craftsmanship of Eastern and Western cultures, promoting cultural exchange and presenting the brilliant achievements of their traditional arts.

Stamp Designs and Historical Background

Jin Ouyonggu Cup (Golden Cup for Eternal Stability)

This is an imperial gold cup crafted by the Qing Dynasty Imperial Workshops during the Qianlong period, representing the pinnacle of Qing court filigree and inlay craftsmanship. The cup is cast from pure gold in a tripod form, with Kui-dragon handles on both sides, each set with a pearl on the dragon's head, and supported by three elephant-head feet. The body is covered with three-dimensional precious flower patterns, with pearls, rubies, and sapphires embedded in the flower centers. The rim is engraved with key-fret patterns, and the cup is inscribed with "Jin Ouyonggu" (Golden Cup for Eternal Stability) and "Made in the Qianlong Era." At the New Year, the emperor would use this cup to perform a ceremony, wishing for the eternal stability of the nation. The cup is made of precious materials and involves intricate craftsmanship, showcasing the exceptional skills of Qing court artisans.

Baroque Cup

This silver-gilt goblet, created in 17th-century Poland, features a tall and dignified form. The body is adorned with relief and high-relief carvings depicting biblical scenes, characteristic of the European Baroque style. The ornamentation is rich and layered, demonstrating the refined engraving skills of European goldsmiths. It is a classic example of Polish noble metal craftsmanship.

Artistic and Design Features

The two horizontal stamps present the artifacts side by side, faithfully reproducing their textures. The gold cup appears warm and heavy, while the silver-gilt relief creates strong contrasts of light and shadow. The photogravure printing captures the differences in luster between the gemstones and metals. The two objects, one from the East and one from the West, create a striking artistic contrast between ornate opulence and classical elegance.

This stamp set is a joint issue on the theme of cultural relics, suitable for thematic collections on ancient gold and silver craftsmanship and Sino-foreign cultural exchange.