For the tenth time in a row, Philately Liechtenstein is issuing a stamp at the end of the year with a motif from the Chinese zodiac, of which the sign in the coming year will be the ox. The Chinese New Year is celebrated on the first new moon between 21 January and 21 February and is the most important Chinese holiday. Traditionally it is celebrated with many ancient customs. For example, people open their windows and doors on this day to let happiness in.
The self-adhesive special stamp "Year of the Ox" (face value: CHF 2.00)
was once again this year designed in the form of a filigree silhouette
and produced using state-of-the-art laser technology. The sheet combines
four stamps and is punched out in the shape of an ox. Gold foil stamping
gives it a classy touch.
In the Chinese horoscope, the ox (also known
as a buffalo) is attributed with qualities such as diligence,
reliability, strength and determination. According to the description,
it is sincere and likes to take on responsibility. In contrast to this,
however, it can also be stubborn, selfish, reserved and distrustful.