Scott No: 2315
Serial number: T159
Values in set: 1
Denomination: 20 fen
Date of issue: January 5, 1991
Designer: Lei Hanlin
Engraver: Hu Zhenyuan
Size of stamps: 26*31 mm
Perforation: 11.5
Sheet composition: 80 (8*10)
Printing process: Engraving and photogravure
Printing House: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing Works

The special stamp Xinwei Year, catalog number T159, was issued on January 5, 1991. 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 Lei Hanlin, engraved by Hu Zhenyuan, and printed by Beijing Stamp Printing Works.

Thematic Focus of the Set

This stamp is the concluding work of the first cycle of zodiac stamps. Themed on the zodiac sheep, it draws on the traditional folk homophone of "sheep" and "auspiciousness" to express beautiful wishes for good fortune, harmony, and yearly well-being. The concept of the "looking-back sheep" serves both as a retrospective conclusion to the first twelve-year zodiac series and as a message to look back on the past and cherish time.

Stamp Design and Historical Background

Xinwei Year

The main subject is a looking-back sheep in the style of a folk cloth doll. The body is decorated with patterns of the four seasons' flowers: peony, lotus, chrysanthemum, and plum blossom. In traditional culture, the sheep symbolizes auspiciousness and gentleness. As the final stamp of the first zodiac cycle, the looking-back pose creates a beginning-and-end echo for the entire cycle, symbolizing the complete and successful conclusion of the twelve-year cycle and carrying a retrospective reflection on the development of the times.

Artistic and Design Features

The form is taken from folk cloth toys, with a rustic and simple style and concise, rounded lines. It uses the combined photogravure and intaglio printing process, with solid engraved lines and rich, full colors. The colorful flower-decorated sheep stands out against a white background, creating a strong festive atmosphere. The horns are vigorous and powerful, and the decorative lines below the mouth are lively. The decorative patterns are rich but not cluttered, combining the charm of rustic folk art with the festive character of zodiac New Year stamps.