Artful rooster struts on new postal issue

A set of two stamps to celebrate the upcoming Chinese Year of the Rooster were released nationwide on Thursday by China Post, the State-owned postal service and logistics operator.

The stamps are designed by prolific Chinese artist Han Meilin, 80, who is also the chief designer of Fuwa, the mascots for the Beijing Olympic Games in 2008.

One stamp shows a rooster raising its head and on the run, symbolizing the country in progress. The other portrays an amiable hen caring for two chicks, which conveys a wish for family happiness. Each is priced at 1.2 yuan (17 US cents).