The origin of the zodiac signs is related to animal worship. A relatively complete zodiac system could already be found in the pre-Qin period. The earliest handed down document that records the same twelve zodiac signs as those in modern times is “Lunheng”, written by Wang Chong of the Eastern Han Dynasty. In the Chinese Zodiac, the year of birth coincides with the animal that represents it, and the attributes or characteristics are of twelve types of animal, in order: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog, pig. These are paired in turn with the twelve earthly branches and together they create the signs of the zodiac.

Although the composition of the zodiac may vary from country to country, is still an important part of many countries and national cultures. In China, the existence of the zodiac has a significance that cannot be ignored. There are rich legends surrounding each of the twelve zodiac signs, which form a conceptual interpretation system and become an image philosophy in folk culture. As a long-standing folk cultural symbol, the zodiac is loved and valued by all ethnic groups and in every eras. Today, nearly 80 countries and regions issue zodiac stamps during the Spring Festival every year to express their blessings for the Lunar New Year.

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