Scott No: -
Serial number: 2007-4
Values in set: 4 + 1
Date of issue: February 10th, 2007
Denomination: 480 fen
Designer: Wang Humung
Size of stamps: 30 * 40 mm
Perforation: 12 * 11.5
Sheet composition:
Sheet I: 20, 150*240 mm;
Sheet II: 8(2 sets), 120 * 210 mm
M/S size: 172 * 80 mm
Printing process: Engraving and offset
Printing House: Henan Postage Stamp Printing Works

This stamp set was officially issued on February 10, 2007. It consists of four stamps, each with a face value of 1.20 yuan, for a total face value of 4.80 yuan, with a souvenir sheet (priced at 7.20 yuan) issued concurrently. The stamps were designed by Wang Huming, with engraving by Zhao Chuan, Kong Weiyun, Ma Rong, and Han Jizong, and printed by Henan Post and Telecommunications Printing Factory using a combination of offset and intaglio (engraving) printing. Original artwork materials were provided by the Mianzhu New Year Print Museum.

Mianzhu woodblock New Year prints, originating from Mianzhu in Sichuan, are one of China's four great New Year print traditions and are recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage. They began in the Ming Dynasty and reached their peak in the Qing Dynasty. Characterized by bold, bright colors and a strong rustic flavor, their subjects include door gods, mythological tales, and auspicious children, embodying folk wishes for warding off evil and praying for peace and good fortune. As part of China Post's New Year print stamp series, this set features four classic works, showcasing the distinctive style of Southwest Chinese folk prints, preserving the folk culture of the Bashu region, and presenting the unique artistic charm of traditional woodblock prints.

Stamp Designs and Historical Background

Seated General with Sword

This is a classic Qing Dynasty door god print, depicting a majestic seated warrior holding a sword. The robust and powerful composition is a typical example of Mianzhu door god prints, symbolizing protection, warding off evil, and ensuring safety.

Mu Guiying

Inspired by the story of the Yang family generals, this print depicts the heroic figure of Mu Guiying, a legendary female warrior. It celebrates her loyalty and bravery, with a vivid and expressive portrayal.

Double Happy Boys

This is a Qing Dynasty auspicious print featuring two lively and festive boys, accompanied by the "Double Happiness" motif. It conveys New Year wishes for happiness, longevity, family harmony, and joy.

Zhang Xian Shooting the Heavenly Dog

This traditional folk deity print depicts Zhang Xian drawing his bow to shoot the Heavenly Dog. It reflects the folk practice of praying for the safety and health of children, embodying the people's wishes for blessings and protection.

Artistic and Design Features

The four stamps share a unified vertical format, faithfully preserving the bold, vibrant colors characteristic of Mianzhu prints. The combined offset and intaglio printing technique balances the three-dimensional quality of engraved lines with the rich, saturated textures of color block printing. The figures are rendered with strong, simple outlines, and the overall design exudes a rustic, earthy charm. The souvenir sheet arranges the four works in a cohesive layout, providing a continuous visual experience. A silk miniature sheet, produced for redemption purposes, adds an elegant and refined texture to the set, enriching its artistic appeal.

This stamp set is an important issue in China's New Year print series, available in a wide range of formats, including stamp set, large sheet, paper redemption sheet, silk redemption sheet, and souvenir sheet. Collectors often pair it with other New Year print stamps, such as those from Yangliuqing, Taohuawu, and Yangjiabu, making it a classic item for thematic collections on folk culture and intangible heritage.