The Snake is the sixth sign in the Chinese zodiac and it symbolises wisdom, caution and romance. The stamps feature the calligraphic symbol for the Snake and its pictorial derivation.

The Chinese zodiac is made up of a 12-year cycle, with Chinese animal signs used for dating the years. For festive seasons, such as the New Year, the Chinese lunar calendar is the determining factor and the recurring animal year cycle is Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat (or Sheep), Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.

The stamps show the development of the Chinese character for the Snake, shown fully in the $1.80c stamp, and the way it is derived from its pictorial representation, shown in the 60c stamp. Paper-cut motifs are used to pictorially represent the Snake in the 60c stamp.

Issue highlights
Foiling will be used in the gutter of the 60c stamp sheet as well as in the design of the zodiac sheet. There is also a $1 circular stamp included in the Lotus sheetlet.

Source: Australian Post

published January 11th, 2013