First Day Cover Limoges champlevé enamel 13th century philately FDC

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This First Day Cover, also known as FDC, celebrates 13th-century Limoges champlevé enamel. The visible side features a vivid color illustration depicting a medieval artwork typical of Limoges art, with detailed motifs and a rich palette dominated by blue, gold, and red tones. On the left, the image occupies a large portion of the envelope, framed by a graphic design reminiscent of medieval goldsmithery.

On the right, a matching stamp echoes the Limoges enamel theme, with a faithful reproduction of a stylized face, likely from a religious decoration or a sacred art object. Two round postmarks are affixed to the surface, bearing the inscription "PREMIER JOUR ÉMAIL CHAMPLEVÉ LIMOUSIN XIII^e SIÈCLE 4 JUIL. 64 LIMOGES" (FIRST DAY CHAMPLEVÉ ENAMEL LIMOUSIN 13th CENTURY JULY 4, 1964 LIMOGES), certifying the issue date and place of cancellation.

The top of the envelope mentions "PREMIER JOUR D’ÉMISSION" (FIRST DAY OF ISSUE) followed by the number 598 and the terms "DOC HISTORIQUE" (HISTORICAL DOC). At the bottom left, the inscription "ÉMAIL CHAMPLEVÉ LIMOUSIN du XIII^e Siècle" (13th Century Limoges Champlevé Enamel) is printed in red, highlighting the subject of the stamp and illustration. The plastic sleeve presentation protects the item and allows for observation of the front's state of preservation.

The colors remain crisp and the paper surface appears well-preserved, with no major signs of wear or visible creases in the photographed area. A small handwritten "3F" insert is affixed in the lower right corner, likely an old price or reference indication.

This type of FDC is sought after for the fineness of its thematic illustrations and the authenticity of the first day cancellation, which guarantees the concordance between the stamp, the date, and the place of issue. The theme of 13th-century Limoges enamel evokes the history of French decorative art.

Condition

Used item sold as is. Visible front in good overall condition, clear illustration and postmarks, protective plastic sleeve included.

Did you know? Limoges champlevé enamel, a metal decoration technique, reached its peak in the 13th century in the Limoges region. Limoges workshops were renowned throughout medieval Europe for their religious works in enameled copper, often used to adorn prestigious liturgical objects.

AFW Reassurance

Careful packaging and fast shipping guaranteed by a professional seller. The item is shipped under optimal conditions to preserve its condition.

Keywords: First Day Cover, FDC, Limoges, champlevé enamel, 13th century, French philately, historical stamp, First Day Cover, Limoges cancellation, medieval art, philatelic illustration, French stamp cover