Illustrated stamp souvenir sheet CEF La Gravure 1994 postmarked

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This CEF philatelic sheet honors the theme of engraving, illustrated by an artistic color composition depicting a curly-haired woman wearing a yellow outfit adorned with green patterns. The scene, in a pictorial style, evokes the world of engravers with an engraving tool held in the character's right hand, highlighting the theme of artistic craftsmanship.

In the lower left part of the sheet is a postage stamp matching the main illustration, with the inscription "LA GRAVURE" (ENGRAVING) and a stylized representation of a hand holding a burin. The stamp is canceled with a round postmark dated June 18, 1994, with the clearly legible inscriptions "PREMIER JOUR" (FIRST DAY) and "VERSAILLES," confirming the first-day issue of this sheet. Next to the stamp, there is a partial reproduction of the main artwork, creating a harmonious visual echo.

The right part of the sheet presents a detailed explanatory text on the history and technique of engraving, under the title "LA GRAVURE." The text, printed in black on a white background, evokes the origins, evolutions, and great names associated with this artistic technique, including Albert Decaris, mentioned as the creator of the stamp and signatory of the sheet's illustration.

The overall presentation is neat, with a wide white margin and a black frame highlighting the whole. The sheet is perforated on the left, indicating a filing method compatible with specialized binders for philately. The entire item is printed on smooth white paper, typical of commemorative sheets issued by the CEF (Connaissance et Étude de la Philatélie).

All visible elements attest to a product intended for lovers of illustrated stamps, philatelic documents, and graphic art. The sheet bears the number 8130 in the bottom left, probably a serial or edition number, which reinforces its documentary character.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The sheet is generally well-preserved, with no major visual defects on the visible side. Some slight traces of wear or marks related to handling or storage may be observed on the margin, without affecting the illustration or the stamp.

Did you know? Albert Decaris (1901-1988), master engraver and French painter, was one of the greatest stamp illustrators of the 20th century. He signed more than 600 stamps for the French Post Office and numerous commemorative sheets, combining traditional engraving art and graphic innovation.

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Keywords: philatelic sheet, CEF, illustrated stamp, La Gravure, first day cancellation, Decaris, France stamp 1994, artistic philately, philatelic document, first day Versailles, illustrated stamp, French FDC