Zodiac Year of the Horse celebrated for the first time through Isle of Man Stamp Issue
Isle of Man Post Office (IOMPO) is delighted to share this issue created alongside esteemed engraving artist Martin Mörck continuing our Chinese Lunar New Year series. Each stamp has been meticulously crafted by Martin, sharing elements of the fire Horse’s rich zodiac symbolism: strength, independence, vitality and success. For thousands of years, the horse has galloped through the heart of Chinese art, poetry, and philosophy. Those born under its influence traditionally thought to be intelligent and ambitious. In Chinese history the horse is not only a powerful working companion, but also a symbol of mobility and status: it drew chariots, carried warriors, and conveyed its riders across vast terrains.The image of the horse has long held a sacred place in Chinese history. Ancient scrolls, Han dynasty tomb figurines, and Tang dynasty murals depict horses as both noble companions and celestial creatures. The mythic “heavenly horses” (tianma) were believed to be of divine origin, swift enough to run among the clouds and carry heroes to immortality. On 17th February 2026, around the world the Year of the Horse will be celebrated with lanterns, dances, and red banners displaying galloping horses as emblems of strength and good fortune. For many, it is also a time to reconnect with heritage, honour ancestors, and begin the year with renewed purpose and vitality. Year of the Horse Facts Most compatible with: Tiger, Goat and DogLeast compatible with: Rat, Ox and Rabbit Lucky numbers: 6, 8 & 9 The Horse years are: 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014 and 2026. Notable people born in the Year of the Horse include; Vladimir Lenin, Guy Gibson, Paul McCartney, Clint Eastwood and Janis Joplin. Maxine Cannon, General Manager of Isle of Man Stamps and Coins, said: “We are thrilled to have worked alongside Martin to create this beautiful strip of stamps marking the 2026 Year of the Horse. The collection includes information on Riding for the Disabled Association Isle of Man and Manx Carriage Driving 4 Disabled, sharing background on how horses are used within our community for wellbeing and charitable purposes. Artist Martin Mörck explains: “I was very interested to work on a set of Zodiac stamps for Isle of Man Post Office. I did a lot of sketches but came up with the idea of just showing the heads with waving manes and various expressions running throughout each design. By scanning two thin drawings on top of each other I am able to make the drawings more dynamic and alive. Together with the waving red and gold sweep they share the personality of the Fire Horse” Riding for the Disabled AssociationThe Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) Isle of Man celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026. It is a 100% self-funded volunteer organisation made up of qualified coaches and trained helpers. RDA is an inclusive and diverse organisation, welcoming participants with physical and learning disabilities. It brings therapy, achievement, and enjoyment to as many people on the Island as possible. Manx Carriage Driving 4 DisabledAs the year of the Horse begins, Manx Carriage Driving 4 Disabled moves into its second decade, delivering drives to young and old alike, bringing smiles and joy to both participants and volunteers. Affiliated to RDA UK, members may enjoy a quiet drive though the countryside, experience the challenge and sense of achievement of ‘driving the hazards’ in the arena, or get up close and personal with ponies during proficiency sessions. Result: Smiles all round. High resolution images for this stamp issue can be found below - SetStamp 1Stamp 2Stamp 3Stamp 4Presentation PackPresentation PackPresentation PackFirst Day CoverFirst Day CoverFirst Day CoverSheetletSigned First Day CoverSigned First Day Cover