In the traditional Chinese lunar calendar, 2026 is the Year of the Horse, a zodiac sign that symbolises energy, freedom, strength and forward movement. The Horse is traditionally associated with dynamism, enthusiasm and a spirit of adventure, encouraging progress and the pursuit of new opportunities with confidence and determination. People born under this sign are often described as lively, intelligent and charismatic with a natural ability to inspire others and a strong will to succeed. The Year of the Horse is believed to favour initiative, travel, creativity and open communication, making it a time when new opportunities arise that can lead to significant personal and collective achievements. The Chinese Lunar New Year is celebrated on 17 February 2026.
To celebrate the Chinese Year of the Horse, MaltaPost will issue a set of two stamps featuring the horse, respectively within a Chinese and Maltese cultural context. The 0.45 stamp was designed by local artist Maria Christina Bugeja, while the 1.91 stamp was created by Fang Jun from China.
The stamp by Fang Jun blends Chinese gauze and Maltese lace fabrics. Both are openwork fabrics characterised by their transparency, lightness and airy feel. The stamp's main subject is a strong, reddish-brown horse with head held high, mane and tail flying freely in the wind and hooves off the ground, conveying a sense of energy and an unstoppable spirit. It features auspicious cloud patterns complemented by Maltese crosses. To highlight the Chinese zodiac theme, the stamp's upper left corner shows the Chinese zodiac character for "Horse".
Maria Christina Bugeja's stamp depicts a powerful golden horse set against a vibrant red background, symbolising the shared national colours of China and Malta. Traditional cultural Chinese elements are reflected in the dynamic pose of the horse and the inclusion, in the upper right corner, of the Chinese character for "Horse", in current Chinese script. Maltese identity is woven into the stamp design through the prominent Maltese Cross, delicate lace-inspired patterns and the narcissus flower. The harmonious blend of these motifs creates a visual dialogue between Eastern and Mediterranean cultures, expressing elegance and cultural unity within a single commemorative artwork.
The two new stamp designs showcase the vibrant energy of the Year of the Horse while conveying the positive and cordial cultural exchanges between China and Malta.
