The Postal Service marked the start of the Lunar New Year Feb. 5 by dedicating a Year of the Monkey stamp in New York City.
The stamp depicts two red-orange peonies against a purple background. Peonies are popular, symbolic flowers and have special meaning for Kam Mak, the stamp series illustrator.
“The peony painting was inspired by the three Chinese peony trees I have in my own garden. I hope the painting will evoke a sense of renewal and the coming of spring,” Mak said.
This is ninth stamp in the Celebrating Lunar New Year series, which is slated to continue through 2019.
Northeast Area VP Richard Uluski, who dedicated the stamp, said it reflects the Postal Service’s efforts to honor the nation’s diversity.
“For 123 years, our commemorative stamp program has celebrated the cultures of people from around the globe — that together reflect the rich and complex heritage of America,” Uluski said.
Other speakers at the ceremony included U.S. Rep. Grace Meng, a New York Democrat, and several officials from St. John’s University, where the dedication took place.
The stamp is available at Post Offices and usps.com. More information is available in the Postal Service’s news release.
