Tautavel Man CEF sheet limited edition philately GOFFIN illustration

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This illustrated philatelic sheet is dedicated to "L'Homme de Tautavel" (Tautavel Man). It is a first-day sheet published by the CEF (Connaissance et Étude de la Philatélie), as indicated by the inscription visible on the left edge. The sheet features careful printing on white paper, with straight edges and three perforations on the left side, typical of CEF editions for binder filing.

The main part of the sheet features a color illustration depicting a prehistoric skull surrounded by stylized flames, prehistoric animals (elephants, rhinoceroses, horses), and a landscape setting. The illustration, signed by Marie-Noëlle Goffin, gives a lively and scientific appearance to the whole. This composition highlights the link between prehistoric man and his environment.

In the upper left, a postage stamp from the corresponding series (face value 3.40 F) is affixed, accompanied by a 1992 First Day commemorative postmark, bearing the inscription "Homme de Tautavel". Next to it, the title "L'HOMME DE TAUTAVEL" is printed in black capital letters.

The lower part of the sheet contains a detailed explanatory text about the discovery of Tautavel Man, the dating of the remains, the archaeological excavations, and their scientific importance. This text is printed in black on a white background, perfectly legible on the visible side. The individual limited edition number "5594" is printed in the bottom left.

On the left lateral edge, the mentions "Limited edition" and "N° 1006 du catalogue CEF" are visible, as well as information about the publisher and SODOP, the official distributor. No major defects are visible on the presented side: the sheet appears to be in good condition, without visible creases, stains, or tears.

Condition

Used item sold as is. The visible side is clean, with no apparent defects. The inscriptions, illustrations, and stamp are clear and well-preserved.

Did you know? Tautavel Man, discovered in 1971 in the Arago Cave (Pyrénées-Orientales), is one of the most famous human fossils in Europe, dated to approximately 450,000 years old. The excavations have made it possible to reconstruct the environment and lifestyle of these hominids, whose remains are among the oldest found in France.

AFW Reassurance

Fast shipping and careful packaging by a professional seller specializing in philately and collectibles. Quality and service guaranteed.

Keywords: philatelic sheet, CEF, first day, L'Homme de Tautavel, France stamp, limited edition, Marie-Noëlle Goffin, history prehistory, philately France, FDC envelope, philatelic document, limited print run, CEF catalogue