Scott Number: -
Serial number: 2010-5
Values in set: 2
Denomination: 240 fen
Date of issue: January 1, 2010
Size of stamp: 30 * 50 mm
Perforation: 13.5 * 13
Sheet composition: 12
Size of sheet: 140 * 230 mm
Designer: Zhao Jing
Printing process: photogravure
Printer: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing House

On January 1, 2010, the special stamp "Chinese Ballet – Red Detachment of Women" (catalog number 2010-5) was officially issued, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the founding of the National Ballet of China. The set 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 Zhao Jing, with photography by Chen Yubai and Liu Guangming, and printed by Beijing Stamp Printing Works using the photogravure process.

The ballet Red Detachment of Women was premiered in 1964 and is a classic red ballet work that integrates Chinese and Western art, based on the historical revolutionary deeds of the Red Detachment of Women during the Hainan Agrarian Revolution. The stamps feature two classic stage images from the ballet, presenting the indomitable spirit of revolutionary women such as Qionghua. The set pays tribute to classic red cultural works, showcasing the unique artistic charm of Chinese ethnic ballet, and preserving the revolutionary spirit and the distinctively Chinese ballet art.

Stamp Designs and Historical Background:

Faith

Image: Wu Qionghua in red ballet costume, executing a classic leap with a powerful, dynamic pose.
History: Taken from the third scene of the ballet, portraying Qionghua breaking free from oppression and resolutely embarking on the revolutionary path, representing the desire for liberation and the spirit of resistance among women of the lower classes.
Significance: The most iconic solo stage image in the ballet.

Joy

Image: Two female soldiers of the Red Detachment dancing in unison, leaping together.
History: Taken from the scene of celebration between the army and the people, showcasing the unity, high spirits, and hopeful spirit of the revolutionary ranks.
Significance: A classic group dance scene embodying the spirit of revolutionary optimism.

Artistic and Design Features:

Format: Uniform vertical stamp format, based on original stage photography and artistically refined, faithfully capturing the dynamic beauty of ballet on stage.
Color Distinction: One stamp uses a warm beige background, the other a light green background, creating visual differentiation while keeping the composition clean and focused on the dancers.
Thematic Value: A rare example of a red ballet-themed stamp in China, capturing an eternal moment on stage.
Line Details: Subtle dance movement line patterns are integrated into the stamp design, echoing the ballet theme.

This stamp set was an additional special issue and the first stamp issue of 2010. It combines themes of red culture, ballet art, and classic stage drama. The set received the Excellent Stamp Award at the 31st National Best Stamp Selection. It is suitable for thematic collections on red art, opera and dance, and modern ballet, and is highly popular among literary and artistic-themed modern stamps.