Maritime Heritage, 2200 BC and Seal
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Maritime Heritage |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | April 5, 1999 |
| Denomination | Rs. 3 |
| Quantity | 700,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13½ x 13 |
| Printer | Calcutta Security Printers Ltd |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1681 Stamp Number IN 1744 Yvert et Tellier IN 1448 Stanley Gibbons IN 1844 |
| Themes | Models | Sailing Ships | Seals(Emblems) | Ships |
Terracotta Model Boat from Lothal, 2200 BC and Seal
Table of Contents
Commemorative Stamp Set: India’s Maritime Heritage
Design Elements:
- The stamp set would feature iconic representations of India’s ancient maritime heritage. Designs could include the Lothal port and dock, terracotta boat models, and engravings from Indus seals. The evolution of ship designs could be depicted, from single sail ships of the Indus Valley to sewn plank ships with multiple sails as seen in the Ajanta caves.
- Additional elements might include historical maritime routes, images of ancient ships, and Sanskrit inscriptions highlighting the word “navigati.”
Cultural and Historical Significance:
- This stamp set commemorates India’s ancient and rich maritime heritage, which dates back over 5,000 years. The presence of Indian materials in ancient Mesopotamian sites and the advanced shipbuilding techniques demonstrate the depth of India’s early engagement in global trade.
- The stamps highlight the Indus Valley Civilization’s contribution to maritime technology and underline the role of India’s merchants and Buddhist missionaries in spreading culture and religion across seas.
Usage:
- These stamps could be used on special international mailings, symbolizing India’s historical role in global maritime trade.
- They would also be ideal for collectors and educators, serving as a reminder of India’s historical achievements in maritime exploration and commerce.
Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set:
- The stamp set serves as a powerful tool for educating people about India’s ancient maritime history and its technological advancements in shipbuilding and navigation.
- It promotes national pride and reinforces India’s historical contributions to global trade, exploration, and cultural exchange.
- By commemorating significant artifacts and historical developments, the stamps help preserve knowledge of India’s maritime past.
Example of the Stamp Design:
- One stamp could feature the Lothal port, with a detailed illustration of the dock and ships that symbolize the ancient trade network of the Indus Valley Civilization.
- Another stamp might depict a scene from the Ajanta caves, showcasing the advancement in shipbuilding with sewn-plank ships equipped with multiple sails.
The commemorative stamp set might include:
- A detailed image of Lothal’s dockyard and its connection to ancient trade routes.
- A depiction of ancient Indian ships, demonstrating the technological evolution from the Indus Valley to later periods.
- Symbolic representations of maritime tools and Sanskrit inscriptions, emphasizing India’s long-standing expertise in navigation.
Significance:
- The stamp set underscores India’s historical role as a pioneering force in maritime trade and navigation. It celebrates the country’s ancient technological achievements and the impact of its merchant class and missionaries in spreading culture across the world.
- By commemorating these milestones, the stamps contribute to preserving and promoting awareness of India’s vast and influential maritime heritage.