Scott No: -
Serial number: 2007-14
Values in set: 2
Date of issue: June 1st, 2007
Denomination: 240 fen
Designer: Gong Lin, Luan Weili
Size of stamps: 30 * 40
Perforation: 13.5 * 13
Sheet composition: 20 (10 sets)
Printing process: Photogravure
Printing House: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing Works

This stamp set was officially issued on June 1, 2007. It consists of two stamps, each with a face value of 1.20 yuan, for a total face value of 2.40 yuan. The stamps were designed by Mou Zhizhi, with Xia Jingqiu serving as the responsible editor, and printed by Beijing Stamp Printing Works using the photogravure process.

"Kong Rong Giving Away Pears" is a classic Chinese moral tale that has been passed down for over a thousand years. It originates from A New Account of the Tales of the World and tells the story of young Kong Rong, who, when dividing pears, voluntarily took the smallest one and gave the larger ones to his elder brothers. This story exemplifies the traditional Chinese virtues of humility, courtesy, and respect for elders. As part of the series of Chinese virtue story stamps, this set recreates this classic tale, conveying the values of modesty and politeness, promoting respect for elders, and instilling a sense of kindness and propriety in children.

Stamp Designs and Historical Background

Dividing the Pears

The stamp depicts a scene in a traditional hall, where a plate of pears is placed on a table. Young Kong Rong is shown reaching for the smallest pear, while his elder brother reaches for another. This scene captures the most iconic moment of the story, showcasing the child's sincere humility and courtesy.

Offering the Pear

The stamp portrays Kong Rong holding a large pear with both hands, offering it to his elder brother. The expressions of both characters are sincere and gentle, presenting the heartwarming moment of respect and humility, and embodying the traditional family values of filial piety and propriety.

Artistic and Design Features

Both stamps share a unified vertical composition, rendered in a soft and warm watercolor style. The antique tones and elements such as traditional courtyards and wooden tables evoke an ancient domestic atmosphere. The children are depicted with lifelike innocence, and the narrative flows seamlessly across the two stamps, completing the story. The photogravure printing provides soft and delicate colors, making the design child-friendly and visually appealing, while also carrying educational value.

This stamp set is a special issue on traditional Chinese virtue stories, available in stamp set, large sheet, and miniature sheet formats. Collectors often pair it with other ancient children's wisdom story stamps, such as "Cao Chong Weighs the Elephant" and "Sima Guang Smashes the Vat," making it a distinctive addition to thematic collections on children's moral education and ancient fables.