Flora Fauna France CEF philately sheet ASTER illustrated postmark

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This illustrated philatelic sheet, published by CEF, showcases the Blue Mountain Aster in the "Flora and Fauna of France" series. On the visible side, the sheet features a meticulous composition with a color illustration of the Aster in bloom against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains, created by Claude Durrens (mentioned as Grand Prix de Rome for engraving and author of the issued stamp). The Pic du Port (2903 m) in Ariège is depicted in the background, adding a naturalistic and geographical dimension to the whole.

At the top of the sheet, the title "Série Flore et Faune de France – ASTER" is clearly visible, followed by a rich explanatory text on the botany of the aster, its varieties, and its distribution in France. The central part features an illustrated cancellation, dated 21-6-1980 in Toulouse, incorporating the floral motif of the stamp associated with the series. The round, clear, and well-positioned postmark attests to the authenticity of the philatelic issue.

The left part of the sheet includes the editorial mentions "CEF", as well as the catalog number "394" at the bottom left. The paper has a smooth, matte surface, with perforated edges on the left for filing in a binder or album. The printing is crisp, with marked contrasts between the black text and the colored illustrations.

The sheet is presented flat, with no folds or visible handling marks on the displayed side. No tears, stains, or major alterations appear on the exposed part. The colors of the illustration (blue, yellow, green, brown, white) remain vibrant and true, highlighting the object's quality of preservation.

This CEF sheet is aimed at those looking for an illustrated philatelic document, combining a French botanical theme with a neat presentation, ideal for display in a specialized album or to enrich a collection dedicated to the flora of France.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The visible side is in very good general condition, with no apparent defects. Slight handling marks possible on the edges or corners, without affecting the integrity of the illustration or text.

Did you know? The CEF (Courrier d’Entreprise à Faciale) sheet is a French philatelic production known for its limited editions and collaborations with renowned artists. The illustrator Claude Durrens, author of this sheet, is also famous for his engravings of official stamps and won the Grand Prix de Rome for engraving in 1948.

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Keywords: French philatelic sheet, CEF Flora Fauna series, illustrated Aster stamp, first day cancellation, French botany, Claude Durrens, Pic du Port Ariège, philatelic document, illustrated stamp sheet, French flora stamp, FDC France, philatelic cover