CEF Philatelic Sheet 1685-1985 Huguenots Tolerance Luther Calvin

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This illustrated philatelic souvenir sheet, published by CEF, commemorates the welcome of the Huguenots in 1685-1985. The visible side features a color illustration depicting Martin Luther and John Calvin, major figures of the Protestant Reformation. The details of the drawing highlight their expressive faces, with period clothing, one wearing a distinctive red beret. To the right, the sheet incorporates an official postage stamp, bearing the "STRASBOURG 250" first-day postmark and adorned with a Huguenot cross, a historical emblem of French Protestantism.

The top of the sheet mentions "1685-1985 Welcome of the Huguenots" followed by the values "Tolerance - Pluralism - Fraternity." The text printed below the illustration details the historical context, recalling the role of the Reformation, the revocation of the Edict of Nantes, and the persecution of Protestants in France. The inscription also specifies that Albert Decaris, a member of the Institute, signed the illustration and created the stamp on the sheet.

The whole is presented on a light-colored sheet with side perforations, typical of CEF philatelic presentation sheets. The box on the left specifies the CEF catalog number, the mention "Printed on silk," as well as the print run ranges. The reference visible at the bottom left indicates "3201."

The text in the lower part, printed in black on white, offers a historical synthesis of the evolution of Protestantism in France, the Wars of Religion, and religious tolerance. The overall presentation is neat, with the sheet inserted into a transparent protective sleeve, suitable for archiving.

Condition

Used item sold as is. The visible side of the sheet shows a very good overall presentation, with no apparent defects, with vivid colors and legible inscriptions.

Did you know? The Huguenot cross, a symbol visible on this sheet, appeared at the end of the 17th century to distinguish French Protestants. Its shape, inspired by the Maltese cross, is often associated with religious tolerance and the history of Protestantism in France.

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Keywords: philatelic souvenir sheet, CEF, Huguenot stamp, Luther Calvin, Huguenot cross, first day, French philately, commemorative issue, stamp France, Protestantism, religious tolerance, illustrated sheet