Date of Issue : 31 Aug 2012
Postmark : China
Denomination : 1.20 yuan
Stamp Size : 40 mm x 35 mm
Printing Process : Lithography
China has a long and rich literary tradition, of which includes many forms of poetry and verse. Ci poetry came about during the Tang Dynasty, however, only came to its fullest array during the Song Dynasty, when the style was formatted and regularised. Ci 词 lyrics, perhaps one of the most beautiful, sorrowful and tangible, are arranged to the tune of traditional songs, known as cipai 词牌. The China National Philatelic Corporation has issued a set of six stamps, with corresponding cover for each stamp, featuring the Ci of the Song Dynasty.
Above stamp features A Twig of Plum Blossoms 一剪梅 by Li Qingzhao 李清照. This poem expresses the yearning between lovers. The three lines beginning with "this feeling" are wonderfully conceived, and indicate the subtle psychology and deep affection of the author, while "cai xia" (to have just gotten off) and "you shang" (to step again) depict the endless lingering of lovesickness.
For the remaining stamps and covers in this issue, click on respective links below.