CEF Philatelic Sheet Year of Norman Abbeys Bernay St Pierre/Dives

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This illustrated CEF (Courrier d’Entreprise à la Française) philatelic sheet features the theme "Year of the Norman Abbeys", focusing on Bernay and Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives. The visible part of the sheet highlights two color photographs: the first shows the facade of Bernay Abbey, while the second, at the bottom, reveals the vaulted interior of Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives Abbey. The images are sharp and showcase the Norman religious architecture, with natural light playing on the stone.

The text printed on the left traces the history and importance of these abbeys in Norman architectural heritage, evoking major periods of religious architecture and the role of monastic orders in the region. The sober layout, with a gold frame and classic typography, gives this sheet a neat and elegant appearance, true to the tradition of CEF issues.

In the bottom right of the sheet, a green 1.00 franc stamp is affixed, depicting an architectural motif related to the subject. It bears a round cancellation mark "Année des Abbayes Normandes – Premier Jour" (Year of the Norman Abbeys - First Day) with the date (illegible in the photo) and the mention "Bernay". The entire item is protected in a transparent plastic sleeve, on which the CEF reference and catalog number (No. 505) are printed, along with a printed serial number (14294).

The sheet is in good visual condition, with no visible chips, creases, or stains on the displayed side. The printing is clear, the photo colors are well preserved, and no major defects appear on the exposed side.

Condition

Used item sold as is. The visible side shows no significant defects.

Did you know? CEF (Courrier d’Entreprise à la Française) sheets are valued for their illustration quality and historical documentation. They commemorate major events or sites, and their limited issue, often accompanied by a First Day stamp, makes them sought-after items to illustrate France's postal and heritage history.

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Keywords: CEF sheet, French philately, First Day, Norman abbey, Bernay, St Pierre Dives, architectural stamp, illustrated document, FDC France, commemorative sheet, French stamp sheet, religious heritage