The meaning of the Year of the Horse and the story of the Eight Steeds ｜ Sharing our paper-carving artwork

In the blink of an eye, time is almost ushering in a new year. For us Chinese, the Twelve Zodiac Animals have never been a mere custom — they are a cultural inheritance and an emotional anchor. Each year, when the zodiac animal changes, it’s as if life dons a new theme and a new blessing.

2026 will be the Year of the Horse, so recently, we’ve received quite a few requests from clients hoping for customized paper-carving works related to the “horse.” Because in traditional culture, the zodiac horse symbolizes courage, strength, speed, and freedom. In the Year of the Horse, we always hope to stand tall like a steed, galloping forward with unwavering courage.

Why do we have the “zodiac”?
 Here in Malaysia, we have three main ethnic groups, so many of our friends from other backgrounds may be curious: why do we Chinese have the zodiac?
 Actually, the Twelve Zodiac Animals originated in ancient times. They are not just markers of time, but symbolic meanings people assigned to nature and animals.
 Through the zodiac, we can transform complex cosmologies and life philosophies into languages understood in daily life. For example: “Years of the Rat bring cleverness,” “Years of the Ox bring diligence,” “Years of the Dragon bring soaring,” “Years of the Horse bring courage.”
 They allow each of us to find a sense of identity in our zodiac, and make the blessings for the new year more tangible and warm.

What does the Year of the Horse represent?
 In traditional culture, the horse is one of humanity’s most important companions. It symbolizes speed, travel, strength, and the success of one’s career.
 The phrase “horse arrives, success follows” (马到功成) is familiar to everyone—it means success comes soon after taking action. Thus, the Year of the Horse is seen as full of hope and opportunity.
 For many people, the blessing of the Year of the Horse is: to have the courage to try new things, the strength to overcome obstacles, and the speed to seize opportunities.

Why the “Eight Steeds”?
 The story of the “Eight Steeds” comes from ancient China. According to legend, King Mu of the Zhou Dynasty had eight divine steeds, each capable of traveling a thousand li per day, which is about 500 kilometers, accompanying him to travel across the land.
 Later, people came to associate the “Eight Steeds” with honor, auspiciousness, and strength.
 The number “eight” in Chinese culture is already auspicious, symbolizing prosperity. Coupled with eight horses galloping together, it symbolizes thriving careers, harmonious families, and wealth coming from all directions.
 So in the Year of the Horse, the Eight Steeds become an especially popular theme. It’s not just a painting or an artwork, but a blessing that gathers good fortune and strength.

Our Artwork: From Paper to Art
 This time, we specially completed a paper-carving work for a client with the theme of the “Eight Steeds.” As you can see, eight majestic horses are galloping with all their might under the glow of the rising sun; in the distance, golden mountains and rivers, a sea of clouds, and a money tree — all supporting the sense of galloping strength.
 Creating this piece wasn’t easy. Every layer of paper’s lines and shading had to be deliberated repeatedly in order to express the momentum of galloping and the layers in the image. Even the smallest details needed to be adjusted again and again until they were precisely perfect. Though it took much care and effort, when the final piece was complete, the sense of satisfaction made you feel that every bit of perseverance was worth it.

Our Warmth
 I often think, the meaning of art is to turn invisible intentions into something tangible.
 Clients entrust us with their beautiful expectations for the Year of the Horse, and we, through paper carving, forever freeze that blessing.
 So this “Eight Steeds” is not just an art piece — it is also a symbol of spirit. Reminding us that no matter how difficult the road ahead is, if we gallop forward courageously, a bright day will arrive.

The Year of the Horse is coming soon. May these galloping Eight Steeds bring you good fortune and strength.
 In the new year, may your efforts succeed swiftly and your future be radiant like a brocade.

( Translated from the original Chinese text )

 

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