Year of the Horse stamps from Guernsey Post

Guernsey Post marks the start of the Chinese Year of the Horse with six stamps inspired by Chinese art. The stamps are part of a Year of the Horse issue which also includes a first day cover, souvenir sheet and presentation pack.

New Year is the most important festival in the Chinese calendar and symbolises a new start and rebirth. Those born in the Year of the Horse are said to have strength and stability - characteristics which stamp designer Chrissy Lau has tried to echo in the stamp designs. Each of the six stamps shows a different horse, as follows:

• 40p - A horse looking backwards, symbolising the end of 2013
• 53p - A horse galloping forwards into the future. The pattern on the horse features an endless knot, symbolising longevity
• 55p - A kicking horse - with a pattern inspired by Chinese brush painting
• 63p - A horse with head bowed - showing contemplation
• 71p - A rearing horse - with patterns inspired by Chinese tapestries and textiles
• 77p - An eight horse design - a popular theme in Chinese culture where eight is seen as a lucky number

Year of the Horse issue details

Issue date: 8 January 2014
Designer: Chrissy Lau
Printer: Lowe-Martin
Size: 30.55mm x 40mm
Perforations: 13.3

To purchase the stamps, visit the Guernsey Post website.

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