Detailed information of new issues : Christmas issue 1979

Abstract

This is the sixteenth set of Christmas stamps issued by the Malta Postal Administration. Again, each stamp includes a surcharge in addition to the postal value, the proceeds from which, will be distributed amongst child welfare philanthropic organisations. The set, consisting of four stamps, features "The Nativity" on the 7c+ 1c5 stamp and ''The Flight into Egypt" on the 11c+ 3c stamp. These two paintings are both by the well known Maltese artist Giuseppe Cali (1846- 1930). A detail from "The Nativity" is seen on the 1C+ 5m stamp and a detail from "The Flight into Egypt" is depicted on the 5c + 1c stamp. These two paintings are found at the Annunciation Parish Church, Tarxien, Malta. Tarxien became a parish in 1592, and is also closely associated with the rich archaeological history of the Maltese Islands. The Tarxien Neolithic Temples, dating back to about 3,000 years B.C. are world famous and tourists make it a point to visit them. [excerpt]