There are a total of 12 animal signs in the Chinese calendar based on five cycles of 12 years each, with each cycle tempered by one of the five Chinese elements of Metal, Wood, Water, Fire and Earth. According to Chinese astrology and belief, the traits of these zodiac animals not only shape the personalities of people born under the respective sign but also their lives and the events of the year. Apart from the Ox, the other Chinese zodiac animals are the Rat, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.

The determined, hardworking and dependable Ox, second in the Zodiac Cycle starts off yet another New Year on the Chinese zodiac calendar in 2021. Two graphical illustrations of this diligent Ox ushering in the new Lunar Year 2021 are shown in this set of stamps of 1st Local and $1.40.

Much like the animal that is well-loved and used around the world in farming and other jobs of labour, individuals born in the years of the Ox are usually dutiful, hard workers and down-to-earth. Reliable and grounded, these individuals are trusted and respected by peers.

Individuals born in the year of the Ox are creative people, besides being good planners and doers. They are strong, reliable, conscientious and many times inspiring confidence in others because of their faith and sincerity for people around them. Undaunted by problems at work, people born in the year of the Ox will overcome issues with dogged patience, a willingness to seek a solution because they believe they will reap the fruits of labour with hard work. Like the Ox, individuals born in the year of the Ox can be perceived as headstrong and understanding the roots of their strong preferences may help in understanding their persistence. People born in the year of Ox are however not argumentative and prefer to discuss matters calmly and resolve in a peaceful manner. They are calm, patient and can be trusted.

As 2021 is the Year of Metal Ox, they are certain, determined and will always make sure they can keep their promises to others. They take responsibility seriously and will take full advantage of any opportunity by being quick and decisive. They are sincere and have trust and faith in friendship, and thus, they have a good circle of close, loyal friends which will always be there to lend a hand if ever needed.