Description
On 26 June 2026, the United Nations Postal Administration (UNPA) issues a souvenir sheet entitled “Blue and White Porcelain — Macao 2026 Specialized World Stamp Exhibition”, featuring three stamps to commemorate the exhibition in Macao, China, held from 26 June to 1 July.
Macao was a key port for the export of porcelain during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), serving as a major hub through which the Portuguese transported large quantities of ceramics. This souvenir sheet highlights a classic category of Chinese export porcelain known as Kraak porcelain. The term “Kraak” originates from the name Europeans used for Portuguese ships that carried these wares to Europe.
Popular in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, Kraak porcelain was produced primarily in Jingdezhen (Jiangxi province) and Zhangzhou (Fujian province). Typical forms include plates, bowls, vases and ewers. During this period, Chinese export porcelain supplied tableware and decorative objects worldwide, reflecting Eastern aesthetics and influencing global tastes. As such, the porcelain trade became an important channel for cultural exchange between East and West.
The souvenir sheet includes three stamps:
• New York ($1.70): Melon-shaped vase with seahorse and floral and fruit patterns (Wanli reign, 1573–1620, Palace Museum, Beijing collection)
• Geneva (CHF 2,50): The four occupations plate (Wanli reign, 1573–1620, Palace Museum, Beijing collection)
• Vienna (€ 2,00): Water vase (circa 1600–1683, Macao Museum collection)
The background features the Macao Peninsula in the style of blue-and-white porcelain, showcasing the Ruins of Saint Paul’s and the surrounding historic centre, both iconic World Heritage landmarks.
The stamp sheet was designed by Lam Chi Ian (Macao, China) and Wu Di (China).
