Sir William Jones (1746-1794) – 250th Birth Anniversary

Commemorative Stamp Set: Sir William Jones

Design Elements:

• The stamp prominently features a portrait of Sir William Jones, based on a painting by Robert Home.
• The background includes motifs representing his contributions to Indology, such as ancient Indian scripts, and texts, and imagery of Sanskrit literature.
• The color scheme includes shades of deep blue and gold, symbolizing the richness of the ancient knowledge he helped revive.
• The stamp also incorporates elements of the Asiatic Society, including its emblem, as a nod to his role in founding the institution.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

• Sir William Jones was a pioneering figure in the field of Indology and Oriental studies, laying the foundation for the academic study of India’s ancient history, language, and literature.
• His translation of key Sanskrit works like Kalidasa’s “Sakuntala” introduced Indian literature to the Western world, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of India’s rich cultural heritage.
• Jones’s establishment of the Asiatic Society in 1784 was a monumental step in promoting research into ancient Indian texts and history, thereby preserving and revitalizing India’s intellectual traditions.
• His contributions to linguistics, particularly in Comparative Philology, set the stage for the development of modern linguistics and helped uncover the connections between Indo-European languages.

Usage:

• This stamp is ideal for general postal use and serves as a significant item for collectors interested in historical figures, scholars, and the study of Indology.
• It can also be used in educational contexts to promote awareness of Sir William Jones’s contributions to the study of Indian culture and linguistics.

Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set:

• The stamp set honors the 250th birth anniversary of Sir William Jones, recognizing his indelible impact on the study and preservation of India’s ancient culture and literature.
• By issuing this stamp, the Department of Posts celebrates Jones’s role in bridging the intellectual traditions of the East and West, highlighting his contributions to global knowledge.
• The stamp serves as a reminder of the rich cultural and literary heritage of India and the importance of scholarly endeavors in preserving this heritage for future generations.

Example of the Stamp Design:

• The stamp features a dignified portrait of Sir William Jones, set against a backdrop of ancient Indian manuscripts and symbols associated with the Asiatic Society.
• The border of the stamp includes the text “Sir William Jones” and commemorates his birth anniversary with the dates “1746-1794.”
• The year of issue, 1996, marking the 250th anniversary of his birth, is prominently displayed at the bottom.

The commemorative stamp set might include:

• A series of stamps depicting various aspects of Jones’s life and work, including his translation of “Sakuntala,” his founding of the Asiatic Society, and his contributions to the field of linguistics.
• Additional stamps could highlight his role in promoting the study of Indian astronomy, law, and comparative mythology.

Significance:

• This commemorative stamp set not only honors Sir William Jones’s remarkable contributions to the study of Indian culture but also underscores the importance of cross-cultural scholarship in fostering global understanding.
• It serves as a tribute to a scholar whose work laid the groundwork for modern Indology and contributed to the intellectual awakening of India, ultimately influencing the rise of Indian nationalism.