Orchids: Cymbidium bicolour
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Orchids |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | October 12, 1991 |
| Denomination | Rs. 4 |
| Quantity | 1000000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 x 13½ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1323 Stamp Number IN 1380 Yvert et Tellier IN 1127 Stanley Gibbons IN 1473 |
| Themes | Flowers | Orchids | Plants (Flora) | |
Commemorative Stamp Set: Orchids of India
Design Elements
- Visual Themes: A diverse collection of orchid species from various regions of India, each portrayed in its natural habitat.
- Color Scheme: Rich and vibrant colors that accurately reflect the natural beauty of each orchid.
- Typography: Elegant and legible fonts that complement the intricate designs of the orchids.
- Imagery: Detailed illustrations or high-resolution photographs capturing the unique characteristics of each orchid species.
Cultural and Historical Significance
- Biodiversity Showcase: Highlights India’s rich biodiversity, showcasing the country’s wide variety of orchids.
- Conservation Awareness: Brings attention to the need for conserving endangered orchid species and their habitats.
- Cultural Importance: Orchids hold significant cultural value in various regions of India, often used in traditional rituals and ceremonies.
Usage
- Philately: Collectors and enthusiasts use these stamps to celebrate India’s natural beauty and expand their collections.
- Postal Service: Adds aesthetic value to mail, making each correspondence a piece of art.
- Commemorative Events: Released during significant anniversaries or events related to environmental conservation and biodiversity.
Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set
- Educational Value: Enhances public knowledge and appreciation of India’s floral diversity and the significance of orchids.
- Cultural Preservation: Helps preserve and promote the cultural heritage associated with orchids.
- Environmental Significance: Promotes the importance of conserving orchid habitats and protecting biodiversity.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Celebrates the natural beauty of orchids, appealing to both enthusiasts and the general public.
Example of the Stamp Design
- Stamp Image: Paphiopedilum venustum, a lady-slipper orchid found in Sikkim and Meghalaya, facing extinction due to excessive collection. Flowering time: January to March.
- Background: Depiction of the orchid’s natural habitat in Sikkim and Meghalaya.
- Text: “Paphiopedilum venustum – Flowering: January to March” along with the date of issuance.
- Colors: Natural hues to accurately represent the orchid’s appearance.
The Commemorative Stamp Set Might Include:
- Cymbidium aloifolium
- An epiphytic hardy orchid found at lower elevations in cultivation all over India.
- Flowering Time: May to June.
- Paphiopedilum venustum
- A lady-slipper orchid found in Sikkim and Meghalaya facing extinction due to excessive collection.
- Flowering Time: January to March.
- Phais Tankervilliae (First Day Cover)
- A robust land orchid found in North East India.
- Flowering Time: April to July.
- Renanthera imschootiana (Cancellation)
- A rare and attractive orchid found in Nagaland and Manipur.
- Flowering Time: May to July.
Significance
- National Pride: Reinforces national pride by celebrating India’s natural heritage and rich biodiversity.
- Public Awareness: Raises awareness about the diverse orchid species and the importance of conservation.
- Legacy: Ensures the legacy of India’s unique flora is remembered and honored, inspiring future generations to appreciate and protect nature.