Danny Kaye has said ‘Life is a great big canvas, and you should throw all the paint on it you can’. Despite stamp design and engraving / engravers are much discussed topic in philately, I don’t recall hearing or reading much talk about the art of coloring. Below are few examples that hopefully display the large influence proper use of colors can make on the subject of stamp design.

In best scenarios, the coloring adds a new level to otherwise nice looking design. Take for example the below Czechoslovakian stamp. It is a beautifully engraved work of art, but without the colors, it feels a bit cold and unattractive.

1958 Czechoslovakia, 45 halery stamp from a set of six commemorating the Czech automobile industry. CTO-used.

The copper green used on the Czechoslokian stamp is IMHO a perfect match as it adds a proper ‘old fashioned’ feeling / atmosphere for the design.

Next on the line I have a somewhat modern German greetings stamp. Like most recent stamp issues, it relies on a photograph instead of drawn design. The design itself is somewhat boring, and especially without the colors the stamp looks and feels like a piece of blank paper. It simply lacks contrast.

2003 Germany. Greeting stamp. Nachträglich entwertet postmarks are used for late-cancelling of items without a valid postmark.

With a small touches of color, the design team behind this stamp has highlighted the essential spots, and brought a totally new lease of life for this otherwise dull looking stamp.

I know design / art is a highly subjective topic, but as always, feel free to share your thoughts/ comments.

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