{"product_id":"lot-timbres-france-semeuse-et-ceres-blocs-couleur-orange-violet-bleu-1","title":"Lot of France stamps Semeuse and Ceres blocks orange violet blue","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAFW - Antique France Worldwide\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDescription\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis lot comprises a collection of French stamps displayed on an album page, primarily consisting of blocks of four stamps. The majority of these stamps feature the famous \"Semeuse\" (Sower) design, an iconic figure in French philately, recognizable by her stylized silhouette scattering seeds. Several colors are represented: orange, blue, purple, red, and pink, each marked with a different face value (e.g., 0.25 F, 0.50 F, 0.90 F, 1 F, 10 F). Some blocks show a clearly visible black surcharge, indicating a change in value or later use. There are also two blue blocks featuring Ceres, an emblematic female profile on French stamps, as well as Semeuse type stamps in duplicate dark blue.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe blocks are neatly aligned, most still attached to their original backing, allowing for appreciation of the perforations and margins. The inscriptions \"RÉPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE\" and \"POSTES\" are legible on each stamp, confirming their origin. The face values are clearly printed and vary from one block to another, adding diversity to this lot. The color nuances, ranging from intense blue to carmine red, vivid orange, and pale violet, offer a beautiful visual array for any admirer of classic French stamps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMost of the stamps are uncancelled on the visible side; no traces of postmarks or cancellations are observed in the provided image. The margins and perforations are generally regular, although some corners appear very slightly blunted, with no visible tears. The surcharges present on some stamps are clear and legible, primarily in black, adding further interest to the collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe white background highlights the crisp colors and designs, facilitating the identification of types and printings. The blocks are carefully positioned, suggesting methodical storage. A notable detail is the presence of separation strips on some blocks, typical of printing plates from that era.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe lot includes stamps of different face values, allowing for insight into various postal uses of the period. The coexistence of Semeuse and Ceres designs is also notable, two major series in French postal history, appreciated for their aesthetics and historical significance. No other designs or effigies are visible on the presented side.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCondition\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsed item sold as is. The visible stamps show good overall freshness, vibrant colors, and clear inscriptions. Some very slight traces of wear or blunting on certain margins, but no major apparent defects. The mounting supports are visible in the photo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDid you know?\u003c\/b\u003e The Semeuse design, created by Oscar Roty in 1897, is one of the most enduring symbols of French philately. It was used on many stamps between the late 19th century and the 1940s, representing the advancing Republic and agricultural prosperity. Surcharges were often applied to modify the face value during rapid tariff changes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAFW Reassurance\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFast shipping and careful packaging guaranteed by a professional seller specializing in philatelic and antique paper items\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AFW","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54483255132487,"sku":null,"price":31.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0989\/5152\/8775\/files\/s-l1600_7135544f-6c8e-4527-8d9e-da5c97f781f8.jpg?v=1785574062","url":"https:\/\/shop.antiquefranceworldwide.com\/en\/products\/lot-timbres-france-semeuse-et-ceres-blocs-couleur-orange-violet-bleu-1","provider":"AFW","version":"1.0","type":"link"}