Wild Orchids of Taiwan(Series-III) FDC from Taiwan

FDC Name:Wild Orchids of Taiwan(Series-III)

Issue Date:22/08/2018

Details:
Wild Orchids of Taiwan postage stamps was issued in November 2017 and in January and February 2018, Chunghwa Post is again issued a set of four stamps featuring the Phalaenopsis equestris, Odontochilus nanlingensis, Bulbophyllum retusiusculum, and Bulbophyllum griffithii. The stamps are as follows
1. Phalaenopsis equestris (NT$7): This species is parasitic. Its pale purple flowers are 3 cm across. The sepal is oval, the petals rhomboid. It flowers in summer and is only found in Taiwan in small patches on the forested craggy slopes of Little Orchid Island.

2. Odontochilus nanlingensis (NT$9): This orchid grows on the ground, generally with 2 or 3 flowers. The white petals have a reddish hue with reddish-brown stripes and marks. It flowers in spring and is found at heights of 500 to 1,000 meters in damp broadleaved forest from Wulai to Nanao. 

3. Bulbophyllum retusiusculum (NT$10): A miniature parasitic orchid with colorful petals. Its upper lip is dark red, while the sides are yellow and 1.5 cm long. The flowers are generally arranged in a fan-shape, like a small circular comb, so it is also called Yellow Comb Orchid. It flowers in autumn and winter and is common in cool damp evergreen broadleaved forest in the mid to low altitude mountains of Taiwan. 

4. Bulbophyllum griffithii (NT$20): A parasitic orchid with single flower, 0.8 to 1.2 cm across, whose petals are parchment white densely flecked with purple. It flowers in autumn, and is found in cool damp forest in Xitou (Nantou County), Fenchihu (Chiayi) and Caoling (Yunlin).( Source- Chunghwa Post)

Stamp Designer-Chi-jen Lai

FDC Designer-Jheng Yi-lang

Stamp Printer- Central Engraving and Printing Plant.

Remark: Beautiful two Types of post mark,posted on the issue date to me.Thanks Chen for such a lovely real posted FDC.

Scenery Talchung City FDC from Taiwan

FDC Name:Scenery Talchung City
Issue Date:03/05/2018
Details:

Continuing the series of Taiwan Scenery postage stamps released in 2016 and 2017 depicting Taitung County, Tainan City and Matsu, Chunghwa Post issued a further set of four stamps featuring outstanding places of interest in Taichung City. The stamps are described below: 

1. Taichung Park (NT$8): An important landmark in Taichung City. The Park is verdant and full of trees with historic buildings such as the antique Heart of the Lake and Gazing at the Moon Pavilions. There is also an open-air stage and children’s play area, making the Park a hotspot for family walks, rest and leisure. 

2. National Taichung Theater (NT$9): The Theater lies in the Xitun District of Taichung City. It was designed by the Japanese architect, Toyo Ito, to be a womb for beautiful music. The building has 3D-curved surfaces with air holes and is of a tubular design; no pillars are used in any part of it. Seen face on, it curves round like a flagon of wine: truly something wholly new. 

3. Wuling Farm (NT$12): The Farm lies on the banks of the Qijiawan River in the upper reaches of the Da-Jia River. It was established in 1963. It hosts abundant plant and animal life, cultural relics and the Neolithic Qijiawan site. In spring it is famed for its flowers, in summer for fruit, in autumn for red maple leaves and in winter for snow. It is a well-known tourist spot. 

4. Gaomei Wetlands (NT$15): The Wetlands lie in Qingshui, at the south side to the mouth of the Da-Jia River. They are rich in natural resources thanks to a combination of fertile mud and sandy beaches. The marshy land at the estuary supports a rich and complex wetland ecology and is famous for bird watching. In recent years the Wetlands have become an internationally famous tourist attraction.

FDC Designer- Delta Design Corporation and the Stamp Printer-China Color Printing Co.Ltd(Source- Chunghwa Post)

Remark:Nice real posted FDC from Taiwan.thanks Chen.Excellent two type of cancellation.

Scenery Penghu County FDC from Taiwan

FDC Name-Scenery Penghu County
Issue Date-2nd AUG'2018
Details:

Continuing the series of Taiwan Scenery postage stamps depicting Taitung County, Tainan City, Matsu and Taichung City begun in 2016, Chunghwa Post Issued a further set of four stamps and FDC featuring activities and outstanding places of interest in Penghu County. The stamps are described below:

1. Ocean Fireworks Festival (NT$6): In recent years the fireworks festival has become a standard feature of Penghu’s tourist calendar. The main arena is outside the Guanyin Pavilion in Magong City. The play of light from the fireworks, the romantic bay and the Xiying Rainbow Bridge are woven together in the night sky over Penghu. 

2. Erkan Village (NT$8): Erkan Village on Xiyu island is a single-surname community of the Chen family. The houses are in the old style and retain the traditional format of a village. There are many small exhibitions held here: one house displays ordinary life, another life on the shoreline, another is for singing… The village is the best preserved in Penghu and provides a taste of yore and the beauty of the builder’s craft. 

3. Kueibishan (NT$12): When the tide recedes at Kueibishan in Huxi Township on the main island a winding path across the water to Chihyu islet is revealed. It draws many tourists to this northeast part of the Penghu archipelago. 

4. Daguoye Columnar Basalt (NT$15): When a jetty was built to provide a boat link from Xiyu, stone was excavated from in front of the cliff. Following heavy rain, water collects in the holes and reflects the blue sky and white clouds above: a wonderful sight.(Source-Chunghwa Post)

Remark:Nice First day cancellation(Two types) by my friend Chen from Taiwan and posted on the issue date. 

Teresa Teng FDC from TAIWAN

FDC Name:Teresa Teng
Issue date:15th APR'2015
Details:-

Teresa Teng was an influential Taiwanese singer famous throughout Asia and in Chinese communities around the world. She enthusiastically participated in concerts for ROC troops and for overseas Chinese communities, giving performances in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, and Southeast Asian nations, among other places. She was known as a “patriot performing artist,” “the military's sweetheart,” and “the queen of her generation's singers.” A powerful demonstration of musical artistry that resonated with audiences everywhere, her voice comforted countless souls. One of the true superstars of the Asian singing world in the last half of the 20th century, she helped to advance Chinese pop. On both sides of the Taiwan Strait—and in fact anywhere there are ethnic Chinese—her songs are still popular even today, nearly 20 years after her death.

In commemoration of Teresa Teng, Chunghwa Post is issuing a set of four stamps with denominations of NT$5, NT$9, NT$13, and NT$15.

This set of stamps is designed by Janny Pai and printed by Cardon Enterprise Co., Ltd. in color offset.
Remark:Beautiful FDC with set of 4stamps.Both type of the cancellation are very clear.Thanks Chen.

Chinese Classic Novel “Red Chamber Dream” FDC from TAIWAN

FDC Name:Chinese Classic Novel “Red Chamber Dream” 

Issue Date:30th MAR'2015

Details:

In 2014, Chunghwa Post issued its first set of stamps in its Chinese Classic Novel “Red Chamber Dream” series in the order of the chapters. Now it is following up with its 2015 issue of four stamps. The designs follow :

1. Daiyu Burying the Flowers (NT$5): Baoyu’s maid Qingwen refuses to open the door for Daiyu when she comes visit. Daiyu weeps in silence as she mistakenly interprets this as Baoyu’s doing. The next day, when she sees the ground carpeted with fallen petals, she is overcome with sadness again. As she gathers the fallen blossoms to be buried, she compares herself to the fallen petals and laments at her despondency and loneliness. She tearfully mourns the flowers: “The falling twirling petals fill the air, wasting away while no one cares.….” As he listens, Baoyu becomes transfixed and spellbound. 
2. Tanchun Starting a Poetry Club (NT$5): Tanchun proposes to establish a poetry club. The first business of the club is for everyone to pick an alias for themselves and to draw up the rules and penalties. Then the topics and rhyme entries are chosen before the members start to write and critique each other’s work. Parties held by the club become a fad in Daguanyuan for a while. The scenes where the girls write and chat and Baoyu jokes around highlight the Jia household’s heyday and add vitality and interest to the book. 
3. Granny Liu Touring Daguanyuan (NT$10): Granny Liu follows Grandmother Jia to Daguanyuan, where they party, row boats, and drink tea. To amuse Grandmother Jia, Sister Feng covers Granny Liu’s hair with chrysanthemums. Granny Liu goes along with her jest and plays the fool to make everyone laugh. Through Granny Liu’s touring, the author further describes the extravagant lifestyle of the Jia household, the sumptuous decor of Daguanyuan, and highlights the vivid contrast between Grandmother Jia and Granny Liu’s economic situations.
4. Miaoyu Tasting Tea (NT$25): Miaoyu comes from the gentry class. She is both fastidious and haughty. When it comes to tea, the water she uses is snow water that was collected off of plum blossoms and then buried in the ground in a pot for five years. The tea cups she uses are all valuable antiques. She hands Baochai one with the name “Calabash Cup”, Daiyu “Rhinoceros Cup”, and Baoyu her personal green jade cup. Later she swaps it with a huge goblet decorated with coiled dragon with nine curves, ten rings and 120 knots carved from a whole bamboo root. 

Remark:Nice FDC with Fan cancellation.

Chinese Idiom Stories FDC from TAIWAN

FDC Name:Chinese Idiom Stories 

Issue Date:20th MAR'2015

Details:

To enhance teenagers’ understanding of Chinese idioms and to inspire them, Chunghwa Post has issued a set of four stamps on idioms. The designs follow :

1. Bo Le Appraises the Horse (NT$5): Bo Le is the name of a constellation in charge of the heavenly stable. During the Spring and Autumn Period (770 - 476 BC), there was a man named Sun Yang that many called Bo Le because he was expert in the ways of horses. There is a legend about his search for a good horse. One day, he saw a horse struggling to pull a salt cart up a steep slope. When he approached, the horse suddenly neighed loudly. From the horse’s cry, Bo Le knew that this was the horse he was looking for, so he purchased it. After being properly cared for, the horse did indeed become a great war horse. Later, people began to call anyone who was good at scouting talent Bo Le. 
2. The Ambition of a Swan (NT$5): The Records of the Grand Historian devoted a chapter to a man named Chen She. Chen was poor when he was young and once worked as a farmhand. One day, he woefully said to his coworkers: “Let’s not forget about each other when one of us strikes it rich one day.” The others laughed and said, “You are just a hired farmhand, you will never strike it rich.” Sighing, Chen said “How can a sparrow know the ambition of a swan?” The idiom compares ordinary people to sparrows, who are incapable of understanding the aspirations of a hero. Later, the idiom came to be used to describe great ambition. 
3. Adept with Both the Pen and the Sword (NT$5): In Chapter 93 of The Romance of the Three Kingdoms, a man beats Kong Ming at his own game. Surprised, Kong Ming inquires about him: “Who is that? How did he see through my trick?” He then was told: “His name is Jiang Wei who is very devoted to his mother. He is adept with both the pen and the sword. What’s more, he is intelligent and brave. He is a truly outstanding fellow.” The idiom “adept with both the pen and the sword” is now used to encourage people to pay attention to their work and their extracurricular skills. 
4. Tiny Blade of Grass and Spring Sun (NT$5): “The Song of the Wandering Son,” a poem by Tang dynasty poet Meng Jiao, reads as follows: “The thread in the hand of a loving mother goes into the clothes for her wandering son. She makes the stitches tight before he leaves, worrying it might be a while before he returns. How can tiny blades of grass repay the sun, however much they appreciate its warmth?” The idiom describes how children receive so much from their parents that it is hard to expect them to repay it in kind.

Remark:I am writing this blog after long gap due.In meantime I have lost contacts with many good friends who used to send me very good FDC. Only.Only one is continuing-He is one of my best philatelic friend Shi--Ching Chen from Taiwan.Many many thanks to him & looking forward for good exchange.

Two Ancient Artifacts Souvenir Sheet FDC from TAIWAN

FDC Name:Ancient Artifacts
Issue Date:8th OCT'2013
Details:

To spread understanding about the beauty of ancient Chinese artifacts, Chunghwa Post is issuing two souvenir sheets on five items from the National Palace Museum’s exhibition – “ The all Complete Qianlong: a Special Exhibition on the Aesthetic Tastes of the Qing Emperor Gaozong.” 

Souvenir Sheet A: includes one stamp
New Year’s Chinese silk tapestry scroll with Emperor Gaozong’s calligraphy, Qing dynasty (NT$25): Based on a new year’s painting by Emperor Qianlong of the Qing dynasty, the sheet features a Chinese silk tapestry scroll. The tapestry depicts a pine branch, some camellia flowers and plum blossoms in a vase. In front of the vase are a persimmon, two lily bulbs, as well as some reishi mushrooms placed in an incense burner. It symbolizes good fortune and longevity. 

Souvenir Sheet B: includes four stamps
1. Revolving gourd-shaped vase with decoration of floral pattern in yellow ground of yangcai painted enamels, Qianlong reign, Qing dynasty (NT$5): The vase consists of four parts: a small vase on the top, a middle section that connects to the upper half of the open fretwork, a base that connects to the lower half of the open fretwork, and an inner cylinder. Hibiscuses are painted on the lip, the body, and the base, whereas the neck, the waist and the open fretwork are adorned with representations of golden lotus petals and scroll grass patterns over a sky blue field. A mark on the base in underglaze blue and seal script reads, "Made during the reign of Qianlong of the Qing dynasty.”
2. Carved red lacquer bowl and plate with dragon motif, Qianlong reign, Qing dynasty (NT$10): This glossy red lacquer bowl stand consists of a tall ringfoot, a six-petal sunflower-shaped plate, and a round bottomless bowl holder. The outer wall of the bowl holder features a dragon weaving through clouds. The ringfoot and both sides of the plate are adorned with cloud patterns. A mark on the base includes the character for wisdom in gold regular script and the following text: "Made during the reign of Qianlong of the Qing dynasty.”
3. Plate with celadon glaze, Ru ware, Northern Song dynasty (NT$10): This plate is round with a slightly arched wall and flat well. Its foot rim curls slightly outwards with brass studs on the edge. There is a pinkish sheen where the glaze is thin. There are crackles where the glaze pooled at the edge of the well. The plate has a poem by Emperor Qianlong inscribed on the base.
4. Jade bear vessel, Qianlong reign, Qing dynasty (NT$12): This vessel is made to look like a bear, with its mouth open, its tongue slightly curled, its left hand stretching forward and its right hand pulling back. It holds a ball in its right hand and is posed to throw. A tube sticks out from its back. A three-column inscription in regular script on the back of the tube reads, “In the ancient style, Qianlong of the Qing dynasty.”Source-Chunghwa Post

Remark:Thanks Chen for sending these two FDC on the issue date,The local First day cancellation is good.I hope you will also send the miniature sheets to me later.The size of the two FDC are different for the big & small size miniature sheet.Well planned,now India Post is also doing the same for last few issues this year.

Spiritual Snake Postage Label FDC from TAIWAN

FDC Name:Spiritual Snake Postage Label
Issue Date:18th OCT'2013
Details:

Following the “Auspicious Dragon Postage Label” released in 2012, Chunghwa Post is issuing a “Spiritual Snake Postage Label” featuring zodiac animal sign. The spirited paper-cut snake is expressively rendered with bright colors, and complemented by gold coins and ingots, symbolizing the overflow of great fortune and auspiciousness. On the lower left corner of each label is a serial number with three English letters (which signify the roll number) and four Arabic numerals. A total of 900 rolls with 1,000 labels each will be issued.

Further detail about the label is given as follows:

1. First day of issue: October 18, 2013

2. Paper used: Phosphorescent stamp paper

3. Designer: Delta Design Corporation

4. Printer: Cartor Security Printing

5. Size of label: 43 × 25.5 mm; with two semi-round holes at both upper and lower sides

6. Round holes: 1.5 mm radius; 20 mm between the centers of the two holes

7. Color: Colorful

8. Quantity: 900,000 labels
Remark:Thanks Chen for sending this FDC by registered post on the issue date.

Congratulations FDC from TAIWAN

FDC Name:Congratulations
Issue Date: 22nd MAY'2013

Details:

Chunghwa Post released a set of “Congratulations” postage stamps in 2012. Now it is following up with a second set of four stamps, each featuring one pair of tropical fish, swans, penguins or mandarin ducks. The stamps was issued on May 22, 2013. The stamps have round perforated centers with a predominately orange, yellow and white color scheme, with a red background that features the double-happiness character (囍), which is commonly used in Chinese culture to celebrate marriage. The area surrounding the round center features a grid of double-happiness characters, which convey a sense of glad tidings. The designs follow:

1. Tropical Fish (NT$3.5): A pair of enraptured tropical fish is sealing their love with a kiss. The moving scene conveys the idea of “angelic lovers being lifted to the clouds.”

2. Swans (NT$3.5): The male swan wears a crown and the female swan a lace bridal veil. The scene demonstrates the idea of loving bonds that last “till death do them part.” The atmosphere is romantic and sweetly beautiful.

3. Penguins (NT$5): The male penguin wears a bowtie and dons a stovepipe hat and the female wears a lace bridal veil. The illustration symbolizes the idea of happiness and love everlasting.

4. Mandarin ducks (NT$5): The female duck bashfully turns her head to look at the male, symbolizing that they will be together through thick and thin over the journey of their lives.Source-Chunghwa Post.

Remark:Thanks Chen for the FDC sent by registered post on the issue date.Both the cancellation were different.

Berries FDC(Part-3) from TAIWAN

FDC Name: Barries Part Three
Issue date:17th APRIL'2013.
Details:

Chunghwa Post previously released two sets of stamps on berries on January 12, 2012 and January 17, 2013. Now it is following up with a third set featuring Ribes formosanum, Garcinia subelliptica, coffea arabica, and Smilax ocreata. The designs follow:
1. Ribes formosanum (NT$1): The plant is also known as Formosan gooseberry or Formosan currant. Found at altitudes of 3,000-3,900 meters on Mt. Qilai, Mt. Xue, and Mt. Hehuan, it is most often seen under stands of fir near Mt. Xue’s eastern summit. A deciduous bush, its leaves are broad and round. Its flowers are white with pale green sepals. The berries are oval or spherical and look like little lanterns. When ripe, they are red and edible, with a sweet and tart taste.

2. Garcinia subelliptica (NT$15): Also known as fukugi mangosteen, it is planted throughout Taiwan and native to the southern coast and Green Island. A small to medium evergreen tree, it takes its Chinese name (fortune tree) from its leaves, which resemble ancient Japanese coins in their color and shape. The plant’s leathery leaves are elliptical in shape. The species is dioecious, and female plants flower in August and September. The berries turn orange-yellow when ripe, and they are not edible.

3. Coffea arabica (NT$17): Its range includes Hualien’s Wuhe, Dongshi Forest Station, Huisun Forest Station, Tainan’s Dongshan, Yunlin’s Gukeng, Chiayi’s Mt. Ali, Hsinchu, and Miaoli. The species is an evergreen shrub or small tree grown in half shade. Its leathery leaves are long and elliptical. It has a white corolla, which smells like jasmine flowers. Its berries are round or oval and turn red when ripe. Each berry contains one to two coffee beans, which are ground up to make coffee.

4. Smilax ocreata (NT$20): This plant is found in forests, shrubby areas, the shady sides of mountain valleys, and humid slopes at altitudes of around 1,500 meters. A vine-like shrub, it has ovate to elliptical leaves. It features axillary umbels, each consisting of 10 to 30 short flower stalks. Its berries are round and yellowish green when they first appear. When ripe, they turn dark red and are edible.Source-Chunghwa Post.

Remark:Thanks Chen for such lovely Berries FDC sent by registered post on the issue date.This is the 3rd series of Berries.All the cancellations are good but my favourate is 2nd FDC issued on 17th JAN'2013.

Chinese Classic Novel “Outlaws of the Marsh” FDC from TAIWAN

FDC Mame-Chinese Classic Novel “Outlaws of the Marsh”
Issue Date- 10th MAY.2013
Details:

To heighten readers’ interest in the absorbing “Outlaws of the Marsh,” Chunghwa Post is issuing another set of postage stamps following its predecessor issued on April 25, 2012. The stamps feature "Capturing Daming Prefecture by Ruse," "Heavenly Inscriptions on Stele," "Liangshan Outlaws Granted Imperial Amnesty," and "Successful Expedition against Liao Empire." The designs follow:
1. Capturing Daming Prefecture by Ruse (NT$5): Song Jiang and the gang of Liangshan Marsh devise a plan to enlist “Jade Unicorn” Lu Junyi to join their band of brothers. But Lu and Shi Xiu are captured successively and imprisoned in Daming Prefecture. Wu Yong, nicknamed “Resourceful Star,” conceives a rescue plan. Under the joint forces of cavalry and foot soldiers, they take over Daming Prefecture, and successfully free Lu and Shi.
2. Heavenly Inscriptions on Stele (NT$5): In thanking the gods, Song Jiang hosts a sacrificial offering to the deities. On the seventh evening, a deafening crack explodes from the skies, and a beam of blaze splits the ground. After excavating this area, a stele is revealed with the inscriptions of “enforcing justice on behalf of Heaven” and “loyalty and righteousness.” The stele also features the rankings of the 36 heavenly spirits and 72 earthly fiends.
3. Liangshan Outlaws Granted Imperial Amnesty (NT$10): Song Jiang longs to be granted imperial amnesty and thus exonerated to contribute to protecting his country. At this time, the northern nation of Liao starts an uprising and Emperor Huizong of Song Dynasty sends his Grand Marshall, Su Yuanjing to Liangshan with a decree of general amnesty. At that, the heroes at Liangshan surrender to the imperial court and country in upmost loyalty.
4. Successful Expedition against Liao Empire (NT$25): The Liao Empire in the north sends troops to invade Song. Emperor Huizong sends Song Jiang on an expedition to intercept the intrusion. In the formation, Guan Sheng decapitates Wu Yan Guang, Liao’s general commander. Song’s troops win a landslide victory. The Liao Empire surrenders to the imperial Song.Source-Chunghwa Post.

Remark:Due certain personal problems I have not able to post FDC received form ShChin Chen & others in the last month.Thanks Chen for the lovely FDC and stamps sent by you regularly by registered post(A great honor to have such lovely real posted FDC).I have also sent all the pending FDC & stamps to you.The quality cancellation by Taiwan Post is great.

Qing Dynasty Embroidery souvenir sheet FDC from TAIWAN

FDC Name:Qing Dynasty Embroidery
Issue date:20th MAR'2013
Details:

To promote appreciation of the beauty of ancient Chinese art, Chunghwa Post is releasing a set of five stamps and a souvenir sheet on a Qing dynasty lateral curtain with flower and bird embroidery from the National Museum of History’s collection.
Traditionally, lateral curtains were mostly used to decorate the central hall of a house for a wedding or other celebratory occasion. This red silk lateral curtain, stretches nearly five meters long, features meticulously stitched embroidered flowers, birds, grass, trees, clouds and rocks that simply burst with color. The overall effect is sumptuous and elegant. One of the greatest embroidered works of art of the Qing Dynasty, the curtain, with its glorious and colorful vista of blooming flowers and songbirds, signals that all is flourishing. This set of stamps features the most prominent sections of the embroidery. The designs follow:
1. The five stamps, each with a NT$10 denomination, feature the following: (1) peacocks and scholar’s rocks ; (2) a snow crane, a bat, mynahs and reishi mushrooms; (3) a snow crane, a pine tree and orchids; (4) paradise flycatchers, plum blossoms, bamboo, and magnolia flowers; (5) a pair of Mandarin ducks, a kingfisher and lotus flowers.
2. The souvenir sheet includes a single NT$100 denomination stamp. The stamp features a spectacular peacock, yuhinas, peonies and scholar’s rocks. The sheet selvage features a snow crane, mandarin ducks, butterflies and plum blossoms. To highlight the exquisite beauty of the piece, the souvenir sheet is printed on silk paper plus partly embossed and hot stamped with gold foil.

In addition to the sheetlet format for the five stamps, for the first time ever, this Post is employing the long, fold-out design to release 200,000 copies of stamp collection. The collection is with a four-fold inner page, printed on phosphorescent paper, stretching about 70 centimeters wide when unfolded; comprising a description of the curtain as well as the entire set of five stamps embedded in the curtain. Also released is a pictorial contains the whole set of stamps, a maximum card of the souvenir sheet, a set of pre-cancelled maximum cards and a poster of the entire curtain. These stamp products have elegant designs, and there are QR codes printed on the cover, which links to the National Museum of History.

Remark:Thanks Chen for sending the nice M/s FDC & stamps on the issue date by registered post.It is on e of the unique miniature sheet FDC.Thanks to Chunghwa for issuing such innovative stamps & design.

Berries FDC from TAIWAN

FDC Name:Berries
Issue Date:17th JAN'2013
Details:

Chunghwa Post previously issued a set of stamps on berries on January 12, 2012. Now it is following up with a second set featuring four species: Rhodomyrtus tomentosa, Ardisia squamulosa, Hylocereus undatus, and Mahonia japonica. This set was released on January 17, 2013. The stamp designs follow:

1. Rhodomyrtus tomentosa (NT$2.5): Also known as downy rose myrtle, it is found on the slopes of foothills and low-elevation mountains, and alongside mountain roads in Ilan, Taipei, Taitung and Green Island. This evergreen shrub has leathery leaves that are ovate or obovate with smooth margins. The flowers are scarlet. The berries are urceolate and enclosed within a persistent calyx. When ripe, they are red or dark purple, with red edible flesh.

2. Ardisia squamulosa (NT$7): Found throughout Taiwan, this evergreen shrub or small tree is widely used as a hedge or ornamental plant. It has oblanceolate or obovate leaves with smooth margins. Its corolla is light pink to white. When ripe, its oblate berries are red to dark purple and sweetly tart.

3. Hylocereus undatus (NT$10): These berries, also known as dragon fruit, are cultivated throughout Taiwan. This fleshy epiphytic climbing perennial has a dark green stem, each node of which has climbing roots to help it climb higher. The leaves degenerate into small thorns, and its rhizome becomes a thick, fat water-laden stem. The plant has large sweet-scented trumpet-shaped white flowers, and ellipsoid, large and edible berries.

4. Mahonia japonica (NT$32): Also known as leatherleaf Mahonia, this small evergreen bush is spread throughout northern Taiwan at elevations of 500-1000 meters. Its small leaves, either elliptical or ovate-lanceolate, are leathery with sharp pointed tips and slightly curled edges. It has yellow flowers and ovoid berries that are dark purple when ripe. The berries can be eaten fresh or turned into juice. The plant is famous for its medicinal uses.

This set of stamps are planned by Dr. Hsieh Ting-Fang, Director of the Floriculture Research Center at the Council of Agriculture of the Executive Yuan; painted by Mr. Hung-tu Ko, Associate Professor of Commercial Design at Ming Chuan University; and printed by the Central Engraving and Printing Plant in color offset.(Source-Chunghwa Post)

Remark:This my 1st real posted FDC in the year 2013 sent by Chen on the issue date by registered post.Thanks Chen I will also send all the issues of Official Indian FDC to you in the year 2013.Happy collecting.The local first day cancellation of Berries is very good.

New Year’s Greeting FDC(Year of snake) from TAIWAN

FDC Name:New Year’s Greeting(Year of Snake)
Issue Date:3rd DEC'2012
Details:

2013 marks the Chinese New Year of the Snake, and Chunghwa Post has issued a new set of New Year’s Greeting Postage Stamps with two stamps and a souvenir sheet featuring the upcoming year’s animal sign.The two stamps are denominated at NT$3.5 and NT$13, respectfully; the souvenir sheet, NT$12.

In keeping with the pop modern art and traditional Chinese ink-wash styles of the 2010 and 2011 issues, the vignette of each of the stamps features an artistically papercutted snake or a pair of snakes colored in bright yellow and royal purple against a pale-orange background with random yellow splatters. The bright color scheme spotlights the joyous atmosphere of the Year of the Snake. The designs follow:

1. NT$3.50 Stamp: The long bodies curled against each other in symmetry and the heads pointing to opposite directions, this pair of snakes represents the spirit of “one mind” and symbolizes “warmth and all one’s wishes will come true.”

2. NT$13.00 Stamp: The snake’s head surges forward, with the plump, curved body curling behind. The snake looks spirited and ready to spring into action. This image represents “courage” and symbolizes “marching ahead bravely.”

3. NT$12.00 Souvenir Sheet: With its upper body standing erect and the head tilting to one side to face its curved tail, this snake signifies “mettle,” and reflects the spirit of “sprightliness and “everything goes according to one’s wishes.”

To add to collectivity and philatelic interest, two press sheets are included in the issue for sale on the same day. Each of these uncut sheets consists of two panes of 20 stamps, with denominations of NT$3.50 and NT$13.00 respectively. Printer’s markings remain on the sheet margin. Also included are a poster tube for storing the press sheet and a certificate of authenticity. Launched in 2009, this series of philatelic items are produced in limited quantities, and very much worth collecting.

This set of stamps features the work of Chen Peiyi, who won the third round competition in the fourth rotation to design the stamps. They are printed by Cardon Enterprise Co., Ltd. in color offset. (Source-Chunghwa Post)

Remark: Thanks Chen for sending 2 FDC on the issue date.Both the local cancellations are great for a collector.They were so clear and beautiful.

Deep-Sea Creatures in Souvenir Sheets FDC from TAIWAN

FDC Name:Deep-Sea Creatures in Taiwan Souvenir Sheets
Issue Date:12th DEC'2012(12-12-12)
Details:

To increase understanding about deep sea creatures, Chunghwa Post has issued two souvenir sheets featuring animals that live in the mesopelagic zone of waters near Taiwan. Their designs follow:
Souvenir Sheet A: includes four stamps
1. Eurypharynx pelecanoides (NT$10): This mesopelagic and bathyalpelagic fish lives at depths of 500-3,000 meters. Despite its huge mouth, the fish mostly preys on small crustaceans due to its tiny teeth and stomach that can’t be over-stretched.
2. Argyropelecus aculeatus (NT$12): Commonly known as the Atlantic silver hatchetfish, it lives at depths of 200-1,000 meters. Its flat silver body resembles a mirror, reflecting the colors of its surroundings to camouflage itself. The light organs along its belly also help it conceal itself by producing light that hides its own shadow.
3. Bufoceratias shaoi (NT$10): This species lives at depths of 500-1,200 meters. Its body is globular in shape but slightly flatter on the sides. The tip of its first dorsal fin has evolved to become a light organ called the illicium or esca, which contains many symbiotic bioluminescent bacteria. The esca can emit light to lure curious prey—hence its Chinese nickname: “lantern fish.”
4. Regalecus glesne (NT$12): This mesopelagic fish is found at depths ranging from the surface to 1,000 meters. There have been occasional sightings of it in waters off the coast of Taiwan. The world’s longest bony fish, it can grow up to 11 meters. It is nicknamed the “earthquake fish” in Taiwan because it is often spotted by fishermen after earthquakes.
The marginal inscription features Leptocephalus (upper left corner), Ctenophora (lower right corner) and Bobtail squid (lower left corner).
Souvenir Sheet B: includes one stamp

Histioteuthis celetaria pacifica (NT$25): This species lives at depths of 300-500 meters. Densely covered with light organs, its body can emit just the right amount of light to camouflage itself. One of its eyes has evolved to be larger than the other so as to help it search for prey.The marginal inscription features Pyrosoma sp. (upper left corner), Tomopteris sp. (right), Malacosteus niger (bottom) and Gnathophausia sp. (bottom left).
To highlight the bioluminescent characteristics of these deep sea creatures, the luminescent parts of these animals are printed in luminous ink, giving the stamps a charming effect under darkness. Furthermore, in order to illustrate the color of the silver hatchetfish, it is hot stamped with holographic foil.(Source-Chunghwa Post)

Remark:Thanks Shi Ching Chen for sending such nice FDC by registered post.Great issues by Chunghwa Post.I hope I will get such beautiful FDC in the year-2013 also.This is also a official 12-12-12 issue.

Ancient Chinese Painting “Three Friends and a Hundred Birds” Souvenir sheets FDC from TAIWAN

FDC Name:Ancient Chinese Painting “Three Friends and a Hundred Birds”
Issue Date:22nd NOV'2012
Details:

To promote appreciation of the beauty of ancient Chinese art, Chunghwa Post is releasing two souvenir sheets on the painting “Three Friends and a Hundred Birds” by the Ming Dynasty painter Pien Wen-chin from the National Palace Museum collection. The first souvenir sheet features three stamps, each highlighting a portion of the original masterpiece, with denominations of NT$5, NT$10, and NT$12. The second sheet features the full scroll with a denomination of NT$70.The designs of the souvenir sheets follow: 

Pien Wen-chin was an important bird-and-flower painter at the early Ming Dynasty court. His work blends the meticulous and exuberantly colored style of the great Northern Song master Huang Ch’üan with the Southern Song court painting tradition. The highly decorative painting features nearly 100 birds perched on bamboo, as well as pine and plum blossom branches. Court paintings of its era often carry symbolic meanings to denote auspiciousness. The “Three Friends of the Winter” refer to pine, bamboo, and plum blossom. Among them, plum blossom symbolizes integrity for its cold hardiness; bamboo is a homonym of a Chinese character that means “blessing,” and pine symbolizes longevity. Though the painting depicts 97 birds, it includes “a hundred birds” in the title to indicate the multitude of birds being featured. Furthermore, the number 100 is regarded as auspicious in Chinese. In consideration of the fact that it was painted for the court, it may also signify “the hundred birds pay homage to the phoenix,” an expression of great reverence. Resembling a spot in a mountain forest where 100 birds have gathered, the entire scroll is fascinating.

For the first time ever in this Post, the souvenir sheet featuring the entire scroll is printed on silk paper. The elegant silk further helps to shine a spotlight on the fine strokes of this masterpiece. A pictorial and a stamp folio featuring both souvenir sheets will also be released on the issuing date of the stamps. The cover of the pictorial is made of hard golden paper with red and black foil stamping, and the front features a fabric paper printed with colorful flowers and birds. The folio is with a classical golden paper cutting to gracefully show up the souvenir sheet printed on silk. Both designs are extremely elegant.The set of stamps are designed by Delta Design Corporation and printed by Cartor Security Printing (France) in color offset.Source-Chunghwa Post.

Remark:Thanks Ching Chen for sending this extra ordinary silk paper souvenir sheet FDC.

Protected Mammal Species FDC from TAIWAN

FDC Name:Protected Mammal Species in Taiwan
Issue date: 7th NOV'2012

Details:

To introduce protected endemic mammal subspecies of Taiwan, Chunghwa Post has released a set of four stamps on November 7, 2012. The designs of the stamps follow:

1. Paguma larvata taivana (NT$5): This species is found in the mountainous regions of Taiwan proper, Green Island, and Orchid Island. Its name in Chinese—“white nose civet”—comes from the white vertical stripe that runs from its nose to the area between its ears. Retractable claws like those of a cat make it a good tree climber. This civet will wrap its tail around branches to prevent itself from falling off a tree.

2. Mustela nivalis formosana (NT$5): This species is distributed in mountainous regions at an altitude of at least 2,500 meters. Its range includes the Snow, Hehuan, and Jade mountains. The weasel is short and small, with a short tail and legs. Its throat, chest, and belly are white, whereas the rest of its body is brown.

3. Martes flavigula chrysospila (NT$10): This species can be found in the mountainous regions of national parks in central and southern Taiwan, as well as the Dawushan and Wutoushan nature reserves. The animal sports a bright color coat. The golden yellow fur around its neck resembles a luxurious scarf. Its waist is darker in color, and its limbs and tail are blackish brown.

4. Viverricula indica pallida (NT$25): This species, also called “pen cat” in Chinese, is found in Yangmingshan, roadsides along the Northern Cross-Island Highway and mountainous regions of the Southern Cross-Island Highway, Kenting, the East Coast Mountain Range, and the Fushan Botanical Garden. The animal’s anal gland and musk gland can emit a secretion with unusual odor. It has six black and tan stripes stretching from its shoulder to the base of its tail on its back. On the sides of its chest and waist there are some black markings of various sizes. It has a black and off-white ring tail.

The stamps are planned by life science professor Lin Liang-kong of Tunghai University and instructor Qi Wei-lien of National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, designed by Delta Design Corporation, and printed by Cardon Enterprise Co., Ltd. in color offset.Source-Chunghwa Post.

Remark:Thanks Chen for the nice FDC sent by registered post on the issue date.The local first day cancellation is great.

Cartoon Animation Toy Story FDC from TAIWAN

FDC Name: Toy Story
Issue Date:23rd OCT'2012
Details:

To inspire interest in philately among youths, Chunghwa Post features “Toy Story,” an animated movie popular among youngsters, as the subject of two self-adhesive souvenir sheets. Each souvenir sheet includes three NT$5-denominated stamps, and two NT$12-denominated stamps.

A series of 3 “Toy Story” were released from 1995 to 2010. “Toy Story 3” won Best Animated Feature Film of the Year in the Academy Award. The films follow the amazing adventures of young boy Andy’s toys to highlight the value of friendship, faith and trust. The souvenir sheets feature the animated characters of the films: Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie, Hamm, Rex, Bullseye, Aliens, Mr. Pricklepants, Peas-in-a-Pod, Lots-o’-Huggin’ Bear, Trixie and Buttercup. Illustrations of the colorful indoors and outdoors of the animated films serve as the backgrounds of the souvenir sheets; the magical cinematic moments are immortalized in tiny squares of the stamp.Source-Chunghwa Post web.

Remark: Thanks Chen for sending such a beautiful FDC by registered post on the issue date on Toy Story.Both the first day cancellation is great.Two round stamps are very attractive.A remarkable real posted FDC.

Personal Greeting Stamps – The Language of Flowers FDC from TAIWAN

FDC Name:Personal Greeting Stamps – The Language of Flowers
Issue Date:28th SEP'2012
Details:

To provide more custom design options, Chunghwa Post has issued a second set of ten stamps featuring the “language of flowers” on September 28, 2012. This series is a follow-up to the “Personal Greeting Stamps – Travel in Taiwan,” issued on September 27, 2011. The different denominations are distinguished by different background colors. The designs follow:

1. Cotton rose: daintiness. Comely and graceful, cotton roses always manage to stand out in a sea of flowers. They are often used to describe ladies of extraordinary beauty.

2. Bird-of-Paradise: passion. It is known for its distinguished, moon-gazing crane shape. The colors are a bright, flaming red. Bird-of-paradise also represents freedom, fulfillment and bliss.

3. Clary sage: respect. Clary sage comes in pink and bluish purple. It represents longevity and defense against bad fortunes.

4. Dancing lady orchid: gentleness. Dancing lady orchid inspires an impression of dancing butterflies. Small, dainty yellow blossoms hang around the stalks like tiny bells.

5. Zinnia: everlastingness. Zinnia is known for its long flowering period. When in full bloom, the flowers seem to tower one another. It therefore also represents elevation in status.

6. Tagetes erecta: health. The petals are full and bright, with a relatively long flowering period. As a flower species, Tagetes erecta is popular for its vitality.

7. Chinese hibiscus: grace. The blossoms are flamboyant and pleasing to the eye. Chinese hibiscus also represents new love.

8. Fragrant olive: humility. The blossoms are exquisite and sweet with fragrance. Its Chinese moniker, “Gui,” is also homonymous with the Chinese word, “value.” The flower therefore is seen as a symbol of status and prosperity.

9. Flowering crab apple: warmth. The flower blooms in spring, and brings with it the welcoming warmth of the season. Known for its magic spell, crab apple is also lovingly called, “understand me.”

10. Hydrangea: hope. Hydrangea flowers thrive in the warmth of spring. They are the vanguard of a new season.

The stamps are designed by Up Creative Design & Advertising Corporation and printed in color offset by China Color Printing Co., Ltd.

Remark:Thanks Ching Chen for sending this nice 10v set of stamps on the issue date by registered post.

Teas of Taiwan Souvenier Sheet FDC from TAIWAN

FDC Name:Teas of Taiwan
Issue Date:12-09-2012
Details:

Teas produced in Taiwan are celebrated around the world for their quality. They are grown in northern, central, southern and eastern Taiwan. A rich diversity of specialty teas and production methods have driven tea-growing areas around Taiwan to redefine the international tea industry with kaleidoscopic, aromatic offerings. Based on the degree of fermentation, teas are categorized into several kinds: non-fermented tea (green tea), fully-fermented tea (black tea) and partially fermented varieties. The last is widely known as “Baozhong tea” in Taiwan’s academic circle; it is further categorized by the differences of shape: “strip,” “semi-ball type” and “ball type.” The latter two are commonly known as Oolong tea and Tieguanyin tea.

To encourage better understanding in teas, Chunghwa Post features Baozhong, Tieguanyin, Black tea, Oolong and Oriental Beauty teas as theme for “Teas of Taiwan Souvenir Sheet” with five stamps, was issued on September 12, 2012. The bottom of every stamp is accentuated with the featured tea variety and a cup of tea, and each stamp is set against the tourist attraction of the tea region in single color, complemented by a miniature teapot cutout on the upper right corner. Marginal inscription of the souvenir sheet is inspired by a tea-drinking scenario that manifests the timelessness of Taiwan’s tea culture. The designs follow:

1. Baozhong tea (NT$10): A lightly fermented tea, the tealeaves have a cord-like shape. The tea liquid is honey-gold in color with a pleasant aroma, and a smooth, refreshing taste. It is grown primarily in Pinglin, Shiding in New Taipei City and Wenshan, Nangang in Taipei City. The backdrop of the stamp is set against the Pinglin Tea Museum.

2. Tieguanyin tea (NT$10): A partially fermented tea, Tieguanyin is more oxidized than Oolongs. The tealeaves are rolled into miniature balls, and the tea liquid is amber in color, with a slightly acidic and fruity zest; it is mellow, sweet and smooth to the taste. Tieguanyin is produced primarily in Muzha in Taipei City. The Maokong Gondola is the backdrop of the design.

3. Black tea (NT$10): A fully fermented variety, the tealeaves come in tiny strips and crushed shreds. The tea liquid is a beautiful reddish brown with a light caramel aroma and rich flavor. Black teas are grown mostly in Yuchi in Nantou County and Ruisui in Hualian. The stamp is set against the Sun Moon Lake wharf.

4. Oolong tea (NT$10): A partially fermented tea, Oolongs are unique for their semi-ball shaped or ball shaped leaves. The tea liquid is bright golden-yellow with strong fragrance. Nantou and Jiayi Counties are the primary Oolong-growing regions. The famed Alishan Forest Train is the backdrop of this stamp.

5. Oriental Beauty tea (NT$10): Synonymous with White Tip Oolong, this variety is heavily fermented. The leaves are attached to the twigs, with five colors interspersed across to form a flower-shaped pattern. The liquid is reddish orange that smacks of nectar or ripe fruit, with a rich and smooth aroma. The tea is grown in Emei, Beipu in Xinzhu County, Toufen in Miali County, Pinglin and Shiding in New Taipei City. The stamp features the suspension bridge astride Emei Lake in the backdrop.

The stamps are designed by Up Creative Design & Advertising Corporation, printed by Cardon Enterprise Co., Ltd. in color offset.Source-Chunghwa Post.

Remark:Thanks Chen for such a wonderful FDC sent on issue date by registered post.