Zhangzhou New Year Woodprints FDC from China

FDC Name:Zhangzhou New Year Woodprints

Issue Date:18th JAN'2009

Details:China National Philatelic Corporation issued as set of two FDC and a miniature sheet cover,carrying a set of four spicial stamps of following denominations

1. 1.20: Lion Holding in Mouth a Sword
2. 1.20: The Coming Flood of Wealth
3. 1.20: Goddess Sending Children
4. 1.20: Rat Marrying off Its Daughter

The Zhangzhou New Year Woodprints, originated in Zhangzhou, Fujian Province, emerged during the Song Dynasty (960-1279), developed during the Ming (1368-1644), and reached its zenith during the Qing (1644-1911). It adopts xylograph printing techniques and is mostly devoted to the subjects of welcoming a new year, bringing bless, exorcising evil spirits, and opera stories. Generally with black, crimson, vermilion, and light red as the background color, the prints feature elegant compositions and radiant hues. Those with black backgrounds particularly represent the unique style of the art. Combining the unconstrained, magnificent style of North China's New Year pictures and the exquisiteness and grace of the southern New Year pictures, Zhangzhou New Year Woodprints used to sell well in Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and Taiwan, and produced an influence upon the evlolvenment of Taiwan's New Year pictures.

Remark:Nice FDC posted on the issue date by registered post and delivered safely in my address.Thanks a lot to my friend from China.