China issues stamp set to mark Palace Museum's 100th anniversary

China Post has issued a commemorative stamp set to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Palace Museum in Beijing.

Released on October 10, 2025, the set consists of two stamps, each valued at 1.20 yuan (about 17 cents), paying tribute to the enduring legacy of the Forbidden City. The two stamps feature distinct themes that reflect both the scientific achievements and artistic treasures preserved within the museum, one of China’s most iconic cultural landmarks.

The first stamp showcases a gold celestial globe from the Qing Dynasty (1644–1911), inlaid with pearls and engraved with constellations, stars, and celestial groupings. The second stamp features the Qiannian Hehe Zhou ("Millennium Harmony Scroll"), a delicate floral painting by Qing-era artist Ma Yuanyu, symbolizing unity and cultural inclusiveness.

Originally constructed in 1420 during the Ming Dynasty, the Palace Museum, also known as the Forbidden City, served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors over nearly 500 years. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1987, it remains a living symbol of China's cultural heritage, bridging the past and present through art, science, and history.