1986 CEF François Mauriac philatelic sheet with cancelled illustrated stamp

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This philatelic sheet issued by the CEF (Cercle des Émissions de France) honors François Mauriac, a major French writer of the 20th century (1885-1970). The item features a rectangular composition, with a sober frame and a dominant white color, typical of prestigious philatelic editions. On the left side of the sheet is a large color illustration, signed by the painter-engraver Jacques Jubert, depicting an expressive portrait of François Mauriac, rendered in blue, yellow, and violet tones, against an abstract background.

In the center of the sheet, the text "FRANÇOIS MAURIAC 1885-1970" appears in black capital letters, surmounting a stamp that matches the main illustration. The stamp (face value 2.10 + 0.50) features Mauriac's portrait, the mention "Premier Jour" (First Day), a round postmark dated February 23, 1986, in Bordeaux, and the author's reproduced handwritten signature. The First Day cancellation is clearly visible, which enhances the philatelic interest of the sheet.

On the right, a printed biographical text presents the life and work of François Mauriac, highlighting his major literary themes and his influence in French literature. The printing is sharp, the font elegant, and the layout balanced, with a golden margin underlining the central part of the sheet.

The sheet bears the inscription "CEF" on the side margin, as well as the mention "N° 761 du catalogue CEF," which allows for its precise identification within the series of French philatelic issues. The print run number "14429" appears at the bottom left, indicating that it is a numbered copy.

The overall appearance is that of a prestige sheet, intended for thematic philately or for illustrating literary biographies. The matte finish and perforations on the left edge suggest a format compatible with a specialized binder.

Condition

Second-hand item sold as is. The visible side is very well preserved: vibrant colors, crisp printing, perfectly legible text. No apparent defects, no visible folds or alterations on the photographed side.

Did you know? François Mauriac received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1952. Author of numerous novels, he was also a journalist and a member of the Académie française from 1933. His influence endures today, particularly through his literary analyses and public stances.

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Keywords: CEF sheet, François Mauriac, First Day stamp, French philately, 1986 cancellation, numbered edition, literary biography, Jacques Jubert, philatelic sheet, French stamp, FDC France, illustrated stamp