The collections of the Prince of Liechtenstein include works from five centuries and rank among the most important private collections in the world. Since the Princely House began to collect works of art in the 17th century, it has systematically extended its collections and is continuing to do so today. The Princely Collections Vaduz-Vienna comprise some 1700 paintings with masterpieces from the early Renaissance through to the Austrian Romantic era, including numerous Italian bronze sculptures. In addition, the collections are supplemented by important stocks of graphic artwork, Pietra dura work, enamel items, ivory items, ceremonial arms, tapestries, furniture and chinaware – including Chinese porcelain.

Porcelain is a key component of the art and culture of China. It became a shining example for porcelain-making in Europe and other parts of the world. The Philately is showing four valuable items from the Princely Collections on special issue stamps which were printed in a combination of offset and steel engraving and with hot foil stamping in gold. They are also available as black prints.

The “Famille Rose Teller” (value: CHF 1.00) was made by an unknown master of the Qing dynasty during Yongzheng’s rule (1722 to 1735). Light pink and purple shades were primarily used for the “famille rose” design and remained dominant throughout the whole of the 18th century.

The “Kraak-Kendi” porcelain (value: CHF 1.90), a pot with English silver mounts, dates back to the Wan Li era (1572 to 1620) in the Ming period. The Kendi played an important role in religious rituals and in daily life. Among other things, it was used as a container for blessed water from holy rivers which was used in the coronation ceremonies of the kings. The two other stamps show an “Imari baluster vase with lid” (value: CHF 2.80) and an “Imari plate with lotus blossoms” (value: CHF 3.60). Both were also made by unknown masters from the Qianlong period (1736 to 1795) of the Qing dynasty.