Plate from Indian Museum, Kolkata

The Plate from Indian Museum, Kolkata commemorative stamp highlights a treasured artifact preserved at the historic Indian Museum. Issued as part of the celebration marking 200 years of the museum, this commemorative stamp reflects India’s rich artistic and cultural legacy safeguarded within the walls of this iconic institution.

Historical Legacy of the Indian Museum

The Indian Museum, popularly known as “Jadughar” or the House of Wonders, traces its origin to the early 19th century. It grew out of the Asiatic Society of Bengal, where the idea of establishing a museum first took shape.

Dr. Nathaniel Wallich assumed charge of the museum on 1 June 1814 and became its first Curator. Under his guidance and with contributions from dedicated collectors, the museum expanded rapidly. In 1878, it moved to its present grand building on Chowringhee Road, Kolkata, where it was opened to the public.

Over time, the museum developed into a multidisciplinary institution comprising six major sections: Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Zoology, Geology, and Botany. Each section preserves invaluable objects that narrate India’s historical and cultural journey.

Artistic Significance of the Plate

The plate featured in the commemorative stamp represents the excellence of decorative and applied arts preserved in the museum’s collection. Such artifacts reflect:

• Traditional craftsmanship and design aesthetics
• Cultural influences across regions and eras
• Technical skill in ceramic or metal artistry
• The evolution of functional objects into artistic expressions

Plates and similar artifacts are not merely utilitarian objects; they often carry intricate motifs, symbolic designs, and historical narratives that provide insights into the society that created them.

Commemorative Stamp Honouring the Artifact

To mark the bicentenary of the museum, India Post issued a miniature sheet consisting of three commemorative postage stamps, including one featuring the Plate from Indian Museum, Kolkata.

The Plate from Indian Museum commemorative stamp serves to:

• Showcase India’s artistic heritage to a wider audience
• Promote awareness about museum collections
• Encourage preservation of cultural artifacts
• Offer philatelists a unique thematic collectible

For stamp collectors and heritage enthusiasts, this commemorative stamp is a meaningful addition that celebrates both a remarkable artifact and the institution that has preserved it for over two centuries.