Hu Zhenyuan (Chinese, B. 1954) "Year of the Ox" Signed lower left. Original Watercolor. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was published on the Republic of the Marshall Islands 60c Happy New Year 1997 Souvenir Sheet issued January 2, 1997. The Chinese calendar, or Sheng Xiao, is a complex combination of symbolic representations and mathematical computations. The Sheng Xiao dates back to antiquity, possibly originating during the reign of Emperor Huang in 2637 B.C. Inscriptions of this system on animal bones have been excavated at the Yin Ruins of Anyang, Henan. Twelve animals, each representing a year -- combined with the Taoist religious theories of Yin-yang and the Five Elements -- comprise the Sheng Xiao. Together, it is thought these elements form the basis upon which a person's fate and character can be determined. The Sheng Xiao consists of repeating 12-year cycles, with 1997 being the Year of the Ox. People born in this year will be strong, proud, eloquent and self-sacrificing. In ancient times, the Sheng Xiao played a great role in people's lives by providing guidance in decisions regarding marriage and childbirth. Image Size: 11 x 13.25 in. Overall Size: 12.25 x 15.25 in. Unframed. (B15568)