Great Tang Western Regions stamps
A Philatelic Tribute to Xuanzang's Epic Journey
This remarkable 2007 stamp collection commemorates "The Great Tang Records of the Western Regions" (大唐西域记), documenting the legendary 17-year journey of Buddhist monk Xuanzang across Central and South Asia during the Tang Dynasty.
Collection Overview
Classic Calligraphy Stamps (2007): Features six masterpieces of Chinese regular script, including works by legends like Yan Zhenqing and Ouyang Xun.
Silk Road Stamps (2012): Four vivid designs depict desert caravans and ancient cities, plus a standalone 2012 stamp showcasing Silk Road landscapes.
Ancient Pagodas (1994): Iconic structures like Xi’an’s Giant Wild Goose Pagoda (linked to Xuanzang’s journey) and Hangzhou’s Six Harmonies Pagoda.
Golden Buddhist Statues (2013): Six stamps highlight China’s finest gilt bronze Buddha sculptures, spanning dynastic artistry from the 10th to 17th centuries.
Xuanzang Commemoratives (2016): Three stamps chronicle the Tang monk’s legendary pilgrimage to India, mirroring themes from his Great Tang Records on the Western Regions.
Historical Significance
The original text records:
Detailed accounts of 110 kingdoms visited personally
Information about 28 countries known through historical records
Precious documentation of 7th-century Asian cultures
Invaluable insights into Silk Road civilizations