Date of Issue : 18 Apr 2024
Postmark : Hong Kong
Denomination : HK$10.00 and HK$20.00
Stamp Size : 80 mm x 40 mm
Paper : Paper with Security Fibres
Printing Process : Lithography (HK$10.00); Lithography plus Spot Varnishing (HK$20.00)
Chinese tea culture possesses a deep-rooted historical legacy, with tea ware playing an integral part of Chinese ceramics. Drawing from the collection of the Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware, the miniature sheets in this stamp issue by Hongkong Post feature two special stamp created in a distinctive die-cut teapot shape, a fitting tribute to the theme of tea culture. The HK$10.00 stamp features a globular teapot of English design from the Qing Dynasty (circa 1780). On either side of the body is a Chinese-style landscape with mountains, rivers and pavilions, as well as two figures on a bridge. Meanwhile, the HK$20.00 stamp features a compressed globular teapot with a flat inset lid, also from the Qing Dynasty (late 19th century). The special finishing effects incorporated in the HK$20.00 miniature sheet enhances its presentation, thus giving the featured tea ware a greater prominence. This issue is definitely one of my personal favourites.