In 2021, the Postal Service will issue the second of 12 stamps in the series of Lunar New Year stamps. This year is Ox Year in Lunar New Year. Calling to mind the elaborately decorated masks used in the dragon or lion dances often performed during Lunar New Year parades. These three-dimensional masks are a contemporary take on the long tradition of paper-cut folk art crafts created during this auspicious time of year.
Ring in the Lunar New Year with this new 10″(W) x 10″(H) framed piece, which features the mask art from the stamp, plus a mounted Year of the Ox Framed stamp and the First Day of Issue details.
Artist Camille Chew’s three-dimensional masks for the latest Lunar New Year series are a contemporary take on the traditional paper-cut crafts that are created during this auspicious time of year.
Showcased in a classic black frame, the piece also includes a dust cover and sawtooth hanger on the back for easy display.
Source Of Year of the Ox Framed Stamp Design Inspiration
In the Chinese zodiac, the ox is the second animal in the 12-year Lunar New Year cycle. Interestingly, the animal is usually referred to as a cow, bull, or water buffalo rather than a true ox. In 2021, the year of the Ox began on February 12. So 2021 in series of Lunar New Year stamps is Ox year.
Ancient Chinese astronomers divided zodiac stars into groups known as the “28 Mansions.” This is because of how the moon moves in its monthly journey across the sky. It is said the moon “visits” these mansions as it passes by. The ox is located in one of the northern mansions of the Black Tortoise. Western tradition places it within the constellation Capricornus.
It is fun to explore the intricate holiday traditions of other cultures. Lunar New Year is one of the most interesting, with billions of people across the globe celebrating it each year. It is a time to enjoy meals with family and friends, festive decorations, and hope for good fortune in the year to come.
Art director Antonio Alcalá designed the Year of the Ox Framed Stamp with original art by Camille Chew.
This Lunar New Year stamps-Ox Year will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail one-ounce price.
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