Scott No: 2258
Serial number: T146
Values in set: 1
Date of issue: January 5, 1990
Denomination: 8 fenn
Designers: Zou Jianzhun
Engraver: Hu Zhenyuan
Size of stamps: 26*31mm
Perforation: 11.5
Sheet composition: 80(8*10)
Printing process: Engraving and photogravure
Printing House: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing Works

The special stamp Gengwu Year, catalog number T146, was issued on January 5, 1990. It consists of one stamp, produced using a combination of photogravure and intaglio printing. The stamp measures 26×31 mm, with a perforation gauge of 11.5 degrees. Each sheet contains 80 stamps (8×10). It was designed by Zou Jianjun, engraved by Hu Zhenyuan, and printed by Beijing Stamp Printing Works.

Thematic Focus of the Set

This is the Year of the Horse stamp in the first cycle of zodiac stamps. Themed on the zodiac horse, it draws on the horse's traditional symbolism of galloping progress and the spirit of the dragon and horse, expressing beautiful wishes for a bright future and striving upward. It continues the folk decorative creative style of the first zodiac stamp cycle.

Stamp Design and Historical Background

Gengwu Year

The main subject is a small black horse in the style of folk paper-cutting. The horse's body is decorated with colorful patterns in red, yellow, and green. Its form is lively and dynamic, with its head raised and moving forward. The horse is a symbol of diligence and progress. This stamp, in the form of folk art, conveys the auspicious and enterprising meaning of the Year of the Horse.

Artistic and Design Features

The design is based on folk paper-cutting. The forms are concise and generalized, rustic and vivid. The combined photogravure and intaglio printing process gives solid and clear outlines. The colorful patterns stand out against the black background, with bright and intense color contrast and a strong rustic flavor. It is festive and simple, consistent with the artistic style of the first zodiac series.