Date of Issue : 25 Aug 1994
Postmark : Beijing
Denomination : 20 fēn and 50 fēn
Stamp Size : 52 mm x 31 mm
Printing Process : Photogravure
Wang Zhaojun was one of the Four Beauties of ancient China. She played a significant role in diplomatic relations between the Han Dynasty and the Xiongnu Empire. In 33 BC, a Xiongnu chieftain named Huhanye approached the Han imperials, expressing his desire for peace. He proposed marrying a Han woman to strengthen ties between the Xiongnu and the Han Dynasty. Wang Zhaojun volunteered for this crucial role – she entered into a political marriage with Huhanye and became a Xiongnu queen, working to build friendly relations between the two realms. Her sacrifice and commitment to diplomacy has left a lasting cultural legacy, and her story has been interpreted in literature, poetry, film and song through the centuries. The two stamps in this issue feature Zhaojun as well as the scene when Zhaojun leaving her home for the political marriage.