Scott No: -
Serial number: 2012-5
Values in set: 2
Date of issue: March 20, 2012
Denomination: 240 fen
Designer: Chen Shaohua
Size of stamps: 30 * 40 mm
Perforation: 13.5
Sheet composition: 16
Size of sheet: 150 * 240 mm
Printing process: Offset
Printing House: Henan Postage Stamp Printing Works

On March 20, 2012, China Post issued the special stamp set "Bohemian Waxwing and Dove of Peace" with catalog number 2012-5. The set consists of two stamps, featuring the Bohemian Waxwing and the Dove of Peace respectively. Each stamp has a face value of 1.20 yuan. The stamps were designed by Chen Shaohua, with Gan Zhige serving as the responsible editor. The border design materials were provided by Yu Ping and Ren Ping. The stamps were printed by Henan Post and Telecommunications Printing Factory using offset printing combined with embossing, along with anti-counterfeiting paper, anti-counterfeiting ink, shaped perforations, and fluorescent spray codes.

This stamp set is a joint issue by China Post and Israel Post, commemorating the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the People's Republic of China and the State of Israel. It serves as a miniature testimony to the friendly ties between the two countries and promotes cultural exchange.

The Bohemian Waxwing, commonly known in China as the "twelve yellow" or "waxwing," carries an auspicious connotation of peace and good fortune in traditional Chinese culture. In the stamp design, the waxwing is depicted in a lively pose, set against a background of five-pointed stars, symbolizing China.

The Dove of Peace, a classic artistic image originating from Picasso, is an internationally recognized symbol of peace. The background incorporates the Star of David, representing Israel.

The two birds, echoing each other, embody the shared aspiration of the two peoples for peace and friendship. Historically, China and Israel have deep-rooted ties, with Jewish communities having lived in China for centuries. During World War II, Shanghai provided refuge to many Jewish refugees, forming deep bonds. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, the two countries have cooperated extensively in agriculture, science and technology, economy, and trade. The choice of birds as the theme subtly conveys a mutual hope for lasting peace and coexistence.

The stamp set features a bright, elegant color palette and flowing line work. The embossing technique adds a three-dimensional quality to the bird images. As a joint issue between China and a foreign country, this stamp is a valuable collectible for both diplomatic-themed and bird-themed philately.