Saga Furs has seamlessly incorporated the Chinese Zodiac calendar into our esteemed Top Lot Programme since 2017, featuring a delightful new animal companion in accordance with each Chinese New Year. As we transition into the vibrant year of the Dragon in 2024, we are thrilled to introduce Ray – the latest addition to the Top Lot animal family.
Chinese zodiac animals are rich in auspicious symbolism, and each holds special significance in Chinese culture. People associate particular characteristics with each animal, believing that those born in a given year embody the personality traits of that year’s animal. The 12 Chinese zodiac signs, in order, are Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. Each sign derives its name from an animal, and each creature possesses unique characteristics.
“Saga Furs’ Top Lot Programme continues to showcase the superior quality of Saga® Mink, Fox, and Finnraccoon pelts to our auction buyers. The inclusion of the Top Lot animal zodiacs in our tradition is a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship and beauty of fur. Despite challenges in the fur trade in recent years, the addition of Dragon “Ray” to the Top Lot family is not only a celebration of the Lunar New Year but also a symbol of good fortune and prosperity for our valued customers,” expresses Samantha Vesala, Business Director, Marketing and Business Relations at Saga Furs.
Crafting Dragon Ray
Dragon Ray is crafted from Blue Shadow fox, Pearl mink and White mink in different colours, showcasing its majestic scales and captivating presence.
Furrier Thea Bank Larsen shares, “Designing this year’s zodiac animal has been a delightful yet challenging task for me. I am aware of the special significance of the dragon as a symbol of luck and auspiciousness, so this one really needed to stand out.”
“I wanted to use both mink and fox and I wanted to use a different technique than the previous animals I made. This not only showcases our skills as product developers at Saga Furs but also highlights the beauty of these two types of fur. Most importantly, my intention was to craft a dragon that is truly exceptional. I hope you like this new member of the zodiac family as much as I do,” she continues.
The year of the Dragon
As we usher in the Lunar New Year of the Dragon symbolizing power, good fortune and health we embrace the positive energy of hope, peace, and rejuvenation. The Dragon is a revered symbol of strength, wisdom, prosperity, and positive transformation in Chinese culture.
2024 is about to bring a year of vision and auspicious beginnings. Those born in the year of the Dragon (2024, 2012, 2000, 1988, 1976, 1964, 1952, 1940, 1928) are known for their charisma, intelligence, and strong leadership qualities. They are believed to bring good luck and success to those around them.
With the official commencement of Lunar New Year on February 10, 2024, the Top Lot Dragon will be presented at Saga Furs’ March 2024 auction, symbolizing the start of a prosperous and visionary year for our esteemed customers.