CEF sheet Republic type Liberty 1985 stamps Pierre Gandon philately

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This illustrated sheet is a CEF first day cover dedicated to the "République type Liberté," a French philatelic issue from 1985. The visible side features a full-color illustration depicting an allegory of Liberty mounted on a winged horse, signed by Pierre Gandon, a painter and engraver, and winner of the Grand Prix de Rome. In the background, a blue sky dotted with stars enhances the scene, while several figures are depicted in the foreground, turned towards Liberty.

The sheet includes three postage stamps from the "Liberté" series: a blue stamp (1.80 F), a green stamp (2.20 F), and a red stamp (3.00 F), all postmarked with a round "Liberté Paris" stamp dated 1985. The stamps are aligned in the upper right of the illustration, each corresponding to a postal rate of the time, as specified in the text printed on the right side of the sheet.

The printing is carefully executed on white, matte-finish paper, with a fine border. The printed inscriptions are crisp and legible, notably the mention "RÉPUBLIQUE TYPE 'LIBERTÉ'" at the bottom of the illustration and the explanatory text about the postal rates and Pierre Gandon's work. The sheet is presented flat, with the illustrated side perfectly visible in the photo.

The CEF catalog number is also visible, printed in the left margin, along with the print run limitation. The overall piece is typical of French commemorative philatelic issues from the 1980s, both in its graphic style and presentation.

Condition

This pre-owned CEF sheet is in good overall condition, based on the visible side. The illustration, stamps, and postmarks show vibrant colors, with no noticeable signs of alteration on the displayed surface. Sold as is.

Did you know? Pierre Gandon (1899-1990) was one of the most famous French stamp engravers of the 20th century. He created numerous iconic stamps, including the "Liberté" series launched in 1982, which marked the modernization of French philately through the introduction of new processes and allegorical motifs.

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Keywords: first day cover, Liberté stamp, CEF France, Pierre Gandon, Paris cancellation, French philately, 1985 issue, FDC Liberté, French postage stamps, illustrated sheet, French stamp, Liberté Marianne