First Day Cover Chantilly 1985 falconry illustration philately

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

Illustrated First Day Cover, visible in a protective plastic sleeve. The front features a colorful illustration depicting a falcon hunt scene, with characters in period costume, horses, and dogs. The image, with dominant blue, green, red, and brown hues, is printed on the left side of the envelope. At the bottom left, it reads: "La chasse au faucon" (The falcon hunt) and "Les Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry" (The Very Rich Hours of the Duke of Berry).

The right side of the envelope features a matching stamp, reproducing the main illustration, canceled with a circular postmark "PREMIER JOUR CHANTILLY 60250 2 SEP 85 LES TRÈS RICHES HEURES DU DUC DE BERRY". The postmark is clear and easily legible.

At the top, the inscription "PREMIER JOUR D’ÉMISSION" (First Day of Issue) is printed in red, accompanied by the reference "N°2253" and the date "2 SEPTEMBRE 1985". A small red "Premier Jour" logo is also visible at the bottom left. The envelope is preserved in a transparent plastic sleeve, which protects the surface and allows for viewing of its general condition.

The graphic design evokes a medieval style, typical of 15th-century illuminations. The overall presentation is neat, with vibrant colors and a classic look for First Day philately. A handwritten label "20f" is affixed to the lower right part of the envelope, likely an old price indication.

Condition

Used item sold as is. The visible side is clean and without any major apparent defects thanks to the plastic protection. No creases, tears, or stains visible on the exposed area.

Did you know? First Day Covers, also called FDCs, are issued on the official release date of a stamp. The illustration and postmark often recall a historical or cultural event related to the stamp. Les Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry, a 15th-century work, is one of the most famous illuminated French manuscripts.

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Keywords: first day cover, FDC France, Chantilly postmark, 1985 stamp, hunting illustration, Les Très Riches Heures, French philately, illustrated envelope, first day cover, special cancellation, First Day of Issue, Duke of Berry