The Ministry of Information and Communications and the Vietnam Post Corporation (Vietnam Post) issued two sets of stamps on January 8, showcasing the theme “Lunar New Year of the Dragon” to commemorate Vietnam’s most important holiday – Tet Holiday.
Through the release of these new stamp sets, the aim is to promote Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage among stamp enthusiasts and collectors from all around the world.
| The new stamp sheet features an illustration of a dragon for the Lunar New Year 2024. Photo: Huy Ban |
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The stamp sets consist of two individual stamps and a block of stamps, all featuring majestic dragons.
The first stamp showcases an ascending dragon and represents the Thang Long Imperial Citadel while the second stamp portrays a descending dragon symbolizing Ha Long Bay, both of which are UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Sites in Vietnam.
Designed in a striking graphic style by artist Nguyen Quang Vinh, the 80x80mm stamps will be available for purchase through the public postal network from January 2024 to June 2025.
| The stamp features a descending dragon and carp transforming into dragons. |
Notably, the artist has skillfully incorporated the image of a carp transforming into dragons in the background of the stamp. The carp holds significant meaning in East Asian culture. According to folklore, a carp turning into a dragon represents a mythical creature symbolizing strength, authority, and good fortune. This belief continues to persist today, with an additional connotation as a symbol of intelligence and adaptability.
Additionally, the stamp block depicts a reunion of the dragon family floating in the clouds, symbolizing wishes for good luck and prosperity for Vietnamese families during the Tet holiday.
The artist explained that the representation of nine dragons in this stamp block signifies the Mekong River, with its nine winding tributaries flowing into nine estuaries, bringing prosperity to the agricultural economy of Vietnam’s southwest region.
These dragon-themed stamp sets are anticipated to bring joy to collectors while showcasing the beautiful traditional customs of the Vietnamese people, which have been passed down from generation to generation.
| The stamp features an illustration of a rising dragon. |
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| The stamp block celebrates the Year of the Dragon. |
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