TOPIC / Graphic Design
Link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/karenhorton/4602276167/sizes/l/
This commemorative sheet was issued in honor of 100 years of Swiss postage stamps in 1943. And since I'll never be able to afford the authentic 1843 Zürich stamps, this is the next best compromise and a favorite in my collection.
The souvenir sheet was designed by Albert Yersin of Lutry and Hans Thoni and Bern, with decorative borders designed by Orell Fuessly A.G.??
It was based on Switzerland's 1843 Zürich stamps (4 & 6 Rappen), though I'm not sure who designed the originals. I think the numerals are gorgeous. In 1968 these stamps made a reappearance in a postage commemorating the 125th anniversary of Swiss stamps.
some info on original Zürich Cantonal stamps:
"...And so, on the 1st March 1843, Zürich gained the distinction of being the second stamp-issuing nation in the world. The speed of production, which allowed no time for considering competitive designs, is probably the reason why the design bears such a striking resemblance to the British 'Penny Black'. While the large figures '4' and '6' replace the Queen's head, the engine-turned background was not precisely copied. However, the Zürich stamps, printed in black over a background of fine red lines, were, nevertheless, very similar. The contract for the printing was given to the Zürich firm of Orell Füssli & Co., founded in 1519 and probably the oldest printing establishment in Switzerland. Each design was hand drawn 5 times, giving 5 distinct types of each value. The impressions were repeated on the 'stone' in ten double rows of five stamps, making 100 per sheet..." —Swiss-Philately
additional reading:
'Helvetia' bulletin from 1943 (Google docs/pdf)
Switzerland Its Essays and Proofs Part Twenty Five (pdf)
As always, any further expertise on the design and typography is appreciated.
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