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 Rabbit, the other Chinese zodiac animals are the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.

The warm, responsible and patient Rabbit, fourth in the Zodiac Cycle starts off yet another New Year on the Chinese zodiac calendar in 2023. Two graphical illustrations of this gentle Rabbit ushering in the new Lunar Year 2023 are shown in this set of stamps of 1st Local and $1.50.

People born in the year of the Rabbit are said to have the best characters: They are warm, quiet, courteous, quick-witted, responsible and patient. They have nimble hands and are happy to work at the task given to them while paying attention to details.

Socially, people born in the year of the Rabbit are earnest and down to earth. They are reserved when meeting people for the first time but are extremely loyal to friends from their schooling years. These individuals are naturally detailed and meticulous, using this inclination in their efforts to create happy memories with the people they care about.

Family members born in the year of the Rabbit are sweet to their own children, but firm and fair when guiding them. They also have deep gratitude towards their own parents and hope to service them in all manners as a form of filial piety. They create the happiest atmosphere following their appearances at home, quickly dissipating any unpleasantness.

As 2023 is the Year of Water Rabbit, it may signify a year of calmness and peacefulness because Water Rabbit tends to be steadfast, good lookers with kind hearts, quiet grace and elegance.