The Belgian postal service's 1932 issue, featuring the mythical messenger Hermes, holds a significant place in philately. Specifically, the "deluxe" or "souvenir sheet" version of this stamp, printed in black, remains a highly sought-after item amongst collectors worldwide. This article delves into the history, characteristics, and value of this particular stamp sheet, utilizing the provided information and expanding upon its significance within the broader context of Belgian philately and the Colnect collectors' community.
Understanding the Context: Belgian Stamps of 1932
The year 1932 witnessed a notable release of Belgian postage stamps, reflecting the artistic and thematic trends of the era. The provided categories from Colnect – "Belgium : Stamps [Year: 1932] [1/14] : Colnect;252," "Belgium : Stamps [Year: 1932] [2/14] : Colnect;Timbres Belgique 1930/39," "Stamps of Belgium, 1932," and "Belgium : Stamps [Year: 1932] [8/14] : Colnect;Belgium" – highlight the breadth of the 1932 issue. These multiple entries suggest variations within the series, possibly including different denominations, designs, or printing techniques. The sheer number of entries (at least 8 out of 14, according to the provided data) indicates a significant and diverse release.
The reference to "Belgium #1932 Souvenir Sheet" and "Belgium 1932 Ceres and Mercury" further expands our understanding. The "souvenir sheet" designation points to a larger format, typically containing multiple stamps, often arranged in an aesthetically pleasing manner and sometimes featuring additional design elements. The mention of "Ceres and Mercury" suggests another stamp design from the same year, perhaps hinting at a thematic connection with the Hermes sheet, potentially representing different mythological figures or aspects of commerce and communication. The presence of both Hermes and Ceres/Mercury suggests a deliberate attempt to create a diverse yet cohesive set of stamps for collectors.
The Hermes Design: Mythology and Artistic Merit
The depiction of Hermes, the swift-footed messenger of the Olympian gods, is a powerful choice for a postage stamp. His association with communication and swift delivery directly relates to the primary function of postage stamps. The artistic rendering of Hermes on the 1932 Belgian stamp likely reflects the stylistic preferences of the time, possibly incorporating elements of Art Deco or a similar contemporary aesthetic. The black printing, mentioned in the title "Belgium 1932 Black Deluxe Stamp Sheet of Hermes," adds another layer of visual interest and possibly contributes to the perceived rarity and value of the item. The use of black ink might have been a deliberate choice to emphasize the detail and clarity of the design, showcasing the skill of the engravers and printers.
The absence of a specific image (beyond the reference to "File:Stamp of Belgium, 1932.jpg") prevents a detailed visual analysis. However, based on the context, we can assume the stamp features a high-quality reproduction of Hermes, likely a classical representation emphasizing his attributes of speed and agility. The choice of Hermes as the central figure reflects a thoughtful consideration of both the stamp's function and its potential appeal to collectors, particularly those interested in classical mythology or artistic representations of historical figures.
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