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A new set of chinese stamps issued on the 1th May have proved to be a success in China.

The set of six stamps feature calligraphy masterpieces from four of China’s most famous masters such as Lan Tingxu (303-361AD). The format of the issue isa world’s first as for the first time, the stamps are being printed on Xuan Zhi, Xuan paper, a traditional material in use throughout China   for calligraphy for well over 1,000 years

Calligraphy is an art dating back to the earliest day of history, and widely practiced throughout China to this day. Although it uses Chinese words as its vehicle of expression, one does not have to know Chinese to appreciate its beauty. Because in essence, Calligraphy is an abstract art.

While viewing a Western abstract painting, one does not ask, “What is it?” When viewing Chinese calligraphy, one need not ask, “What is the Chinese word?”

In a Press Release in China, the Director of China Philatelic News said;  

“The stamp is the first of its kind to better reflect the idea of calligraphy,” said Cai Yang, director of China Philatelic News and stamp collector. “Before the calligraphy paper, stamps have also been made from silk, gold or silver foils, and tree skins.” Yet the main difference is the use of an adhesive gum on the back, one of the few innovation to this form of paper in a millennium. Cai noted that such innovations are necessary while stamps now occupy a more rarified position than being simply payment for communications. In the age of the internet and mobile phone, their function as a collector’s item will continue to be at the forefront of their success.