cott No: -
Serial number: 2021-29
Values in set: 2
Date of issue: December 11, 2021
Denomination: 240 fen
Designer: Yu Xue
Size of stamps: 55 * 26 mm
Perforation: 13.5
Sheet composition: 10
Sheet Size: 205 * 160 mm
Printing process: Photogravure
Printing House: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing Works

The year 2021 marked the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the People's Republic of China and the Islamic Republic of Iran. To enhance mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples, China Post scheduled the issuance of a set of commemorative stamps titled "50th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between China and Iran" on December 11, 2021. The set, jointly issued with Iran, contains 2 stamps. The designs feature the Guangji Bridge (China) and the Khaju Bridge (Iran) respectively, with a total face value of 2.40 yuan. The planned circulation of the stamp set is 6.8 million.

The jointly issued stamps showcase two iconic bridges: China's Guangji Bridge and Iran's Khaju Bridge.

The Guangji Bridge, located outside the east gate of the ancient city of Chaozhou, Guangdong Province, was first built in the 7th year of the Qiandao era of the Southern Song Dynasty (1171 AD). It is one of the four famous ancient bridges in China and is known as "the earliest movable-span bridge in the world".

The Khaju Bridge, also known as the Khajoo Bridge, is situated in Isfahan, a historic city in Iran. Constructed during the reign of Shah Safi II of the Safavid Dynasty, it served as a popular spot for recreation and cooling off at that time.

Designed by Yu Xue, the stamps adopt a combined artistic technique of pen-and-ink drawing and gradient coloring. Within the limited space of the stamps, the two ancient bridges—each with unique characteristics of their respective countries—are presented, highlighting the profound historical and cultural heritage of both nations.

The first stamp ("Guangji Bridge") uses a 45-degree perspective to display the bridge's artistic style, which combines fixed spans with movable boat sections and features an elegant, ancient design.

The second stamp ("Khaju Bridge") fully presents the unique and exquisite exotic style of the ancient Iranian bridge.

The stamp set was printed by Beijing Stamp Factory Co., Ltd. using the photogravure process with high screen ruling. A special pearlescent ink was applied to parts of the stamp background to accentuate the simple and solemn charm of the main architectural structures. Additionally, red and blue dual-fluorescent inks were used to add enjoyment when the stamps are viewed under a black light.