Scott No: 2747-48
Serial number: 1997-1
Values in set: 2
Date of issue: January 5, 1997
Designers: Hu zhenyuan
Size: 26*31mm
Perforation: 11.5
Sheet composition: 32
Printing process: gravure-engraving combined

The special stamp set Dingchou Year, catalog number 1997-1, was issued on January 5, 1997. It consists of two stamps, produced using the combined offset and intaglio printing process. The stamps measure 26×31 mm, with a perforation gauge of 12 degrees. Each sheet contains 32 stamps. The stamps were designed and engraved by Hu Zhenyuan and printed by Shenyang Post and Telecommunications Printing Factory in Liaoning Province. It is the sixth set in the second cycle of the twelve zodiac stamps.

This stamp set is the lunar Dingchou Year of the Ox zodiac stamp. Drawing on traditional folk art, one stamp features a paper-cut galloping ox, and the other features a spring-welcoming palace lantern. Using the ox's imagery of diligence, it expresses New Year wishes for a bountiful harvest and national peace, continuing the second zodiac cycle's creative format of one animal image and one auspicious character pattern.

Stamp Designs and Historical Background

Golden Ox Galloping

The design is based on a folk paper-cut work from Gaomi, Shandong. A sturdy, colorful ox strides forward with its head raised, curved horns, and a body covered with floral patterns in vivid, rustic colors. In traditional culture, the ox symbolizes diligence, perseverance, and strength. The galloping ox with raised hooves symbolizes striving upward and tireless cultivation.

Ox Plowing for a Bountiful Year

The main subject is a large red palace lantern. Inside the lantern is the clerical script character "ox." On top of the lantern are a magpie and plum blossoms, symbolizing "magpies alighting on plum branches" (a motif for good news). Peony flowers are arranged on both sides, and auspicious patterns are placed below the lantern. The overall design creates a festive and peaceful New Year atmosphere, symbolizing favorable weather and a bountiful harvest in the Year of the Ox.

Artistic and Design Features

The stamps integrate two traditional art forms: paper-cutting and folk New Year prints. The two designs have their own characteristics, with rich and full colors. The combined offset and intaglio printing process gives solid and clear lines, with prominent engraved texture and a strong rustic folk flavor. One image depicts the vitality of the galloping ox, and the other depicts the auspicious celebration of spring. The two echo each other, combining the cultural connotations of the zodiac with traditional decorative beauty.