Wang Huming (Chinese, B. 1962) "Year of the Rat" Original Watercolor on Illustration Board painting. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 32c Year of the Rat stamp issued February 8, 1996. It is unclear exactly when in ancient times the Chinese began to use the "Sheng Xiao," or lunar horoscope, to predict the character and fate of a person born in a given year. However, we do know that, even today, the horoscope remains an integral part of everyday life for many people in China and elsewhere around the world. Regarded by many Westerners as a combination of mathematical complexities and symbolic tradition, the Chinese lunar calendar is aligned in repeating 12-year cycles. Each year in the cycle is represented by a different animal. Many legends offer explanations for how these particular creatures were chosen. One states that the Heavenly Jade Emperor summoned all the world's animals to participate in a race. The 12 fastest competitors would receive a place on the calendar according to the order in which they finished. The last stage of the race involved crossing a large river. The rat convinced the kind-hearted ox to carry him across and, as they neared the riverbank, the rat leapt from the ox's back onto land. Through his trickery, the rat succeeded in winning the race and capturing first place in the calendar. Perhaps this explains why those born during the Year of the Rat are said to be impatient and somewhat opportunistic. People whose birth years are represented by the rat are also believed to be cheerful, sentimental and devoted to their families. Image Size: 12.5 x 9.5 in. Overall Size: 16.5 x 13.75 in. Unframed. (B15379)