Red Maiden in the Green Robe

Manchu Qing Dynasty · 1894 · 5 Fen

The stamp features a stylized depiction of the 'Red Maiden in the Green Robe,' a mythological figure associated with longevity, set within an ornate frame. Chinese characters for the denomination and 'Imperial Chinese Post' are also visible.

This stamp is part of China's first commemorative issue, released in 1894 to celebrate Empress Dowager Cixi's 60th birthday. It represents an early and significant philatelic issue from the late Qing Dynasty, marking a shift towards more elaborate stamp designs.