In 1851, the Province of Canada created its first stamp, the three-penny Beaver, designed by Sir Sandford Fleming and the first stamp in the world to feature an animal. In 2008, Taylor|Sprules was honoured by Canada Post to receive the commission to create a stamp program to celebrate the Year of the Ox. This issue is the first release in a new twelve-year Lunar New Year Series.

The design of the International Stamp was inspired by ancient traditions of Chinese art and Lunar New Year traditions. "We conceived and commissioned a unique work of pottery as part of the focus, because this art form is heavily rooted in Chinese history," explained Ivan Novotny, VP Design at T|S. "We also chose it for its connection to the earth, as 2009 is the year of the Earth Ox, " added Novotny. According to Chinese philosophy, everyone and everything is subject to the influence of the five elements: water, metal, earth, wood and fire.

The Domestic Stamp features an illustration of an Ox, designed by T|S, set against a mountainous landscape. “The landscape and tan earth tones in the background speak to this year’s element, earth,” explained Novotny. China’s national flower, the plum blossom, is used as a design element throughout the series. The printing of the intricate design presented a unique challenge. The Ox and the blossoms, adorned with clear foil, shine in the light, while multi-level embossing techniques add depth and dimension. Alain Leduc, Manager of Stamp Design and Production at Canada Post, adds, “With the image so full of fine details, the embossing in the design is extremely intricate.”

“The dedication and professionalism of the Canada Post team is outstanding. It is always a pleasure to partner with people so dedicated to and passionate about design excellence,” said Novotny.

To view more of our work with Canada Post, click here.

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