Detailed information of new issues : Flemish tapestries 2

Abstract

This is the second set of four stamps in the Flemish Tapestries series. The first set was issued on the 30th March 1977. The priceless 17th century tapestries are on permanent exhibition at the Museum of St. John's, in Valletta, and are hung in the Co-Cathedral during the special liturgical functions which take place during June. Each of the fifteen large tapestries and the fourteen smaller ones bear the name "JUDOCUS DE VOS" or the initials "J.D.V." together with the shield and the letters "BB", as hallmark of Brussels, in the selvage. The firm of Josse de Vos which wove the tapestries was one of the leading Flemish families of tapissiers. The series of Malta postage stamps will feature the large tapestries. The second tapestries set reproduces four scenes from the Life of Christ, all related to Easter. The 2c stamp shows "The Entry into Jerusalem" by an unknown artist. The 7c stamp features "The Last Supper" after a painting by Nicholas Poussin (1594- 1665). "The Raising of the Cross" from the celebrated triptych in Antwerp Cathedral by Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640) is reproduced on the 11c stamp. The 25c stamp depicts "The Resurrection" also attributed to Rubens. [excerpt]