Reconstructed Fossil of Pentoxylon

Commemorative Stamp Set: Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, Lucknow – Reconstructed Fossil of Pentoxylon

Design Elements:

• The stamp features a meticulously reconstructed fossil of Pentoxylon, an extinct gymnosperm plant, which is central to paleobotanical studies at the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany.
• The fossil is illustrated in fine detail, showing the characteristic structure of Pentoxylon, including its stems, leaves, and reproductive organs.
• The background showcases the Birbal Sahni Institute in Lucknow, symbolizing its role as a leading research institution in paleobotany.
• Earthy tones dominate the palette, with shades of green, brown, and beige, highlighting the ancient nature of the fossil and the scientific pursuit of knowledge.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

• Pentoxylon is an important fossil plant, providing insights into the flora of the Mesozoic era, particularly the Jurassic period.
• The study of Pentoxylon has contributed significantly to understanding the evolution of plant life and the distribution of ancient plants across the supercontinents.
• The Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany is a premier research institution that has made significant contributions to the study of such ancient plants, helping to piece together the history of life on Earth.

Usage:

• This stamp is suitable for general postal use and is particularly valuable for collectors, educators, and enthusiasts of paleobotany and natural history.
• It serves to raise awareness of India’s contributions to the global scientific community and the importance of fossil research.

Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set:

• The stamp set honors the legacy of Birbal Sahni and the institute’s contributions to paleobotanical research, particularly in the study of significant fossil plants like Pentoxylon.
• It acts as an educational tool, promoting interest in the ancient history of plants and the role of fossils in understanding Earth’s biological history.
• The stamp highlights the importance of preserving fossils and supporting research that uncovers the mysteries of prehistoric life.

Example of the Stamp Design:

• The stamp is approximately 4×4 cm, featuring the reconstructed fossil of Pentoxylon in the foreground, with intricate details of the plant’s structure.
• The background includes an image of the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, along with elements that represent scientific exploration, such as fossil excavation tools.
• The text reads “Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, Lucknow” and “Reconstructed Fossil of Pentoxylon” in both English and Hindi.
• The year of issue and the Indian Postal Department’s logo are positioned at the bottom.

The commemorative stamp set might include:

• A series of stamps showcasing other significant reconstructions of fossil plants studied at the Birbal Sahni Institute, each emphasizing different plant groups and their evolutionary significance.
• Each stamp could focus on a different aspect of paleobotanical research, such as the anatomy of fossilized plants, the environment they thrived in, or the methods used to study them.

Significance:

• This commemorative stamp set serves as a tribute to the scientific achievements of the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany and its role in uncovering the history of ancient plant life.
• It emphasizes the importance of paleobotany in understanding Earth’s past ecosystems and the evolution of plant life over millions of years.
• The stamps are a celebration of India’s rich scientific heritage and its ongoing contributions to global knowledge in the field of paleobotany.