In 1989, France celebrated the Bicentenary of the French Revolution with an extraordinary series of philatelic issues. Among these, a striking miniature sheet honored four prominent figures whose contributions shaped the revolution’s course. Released on 24 June 1989, this beautifully designed sheet is a testament to France’s rich revolutionary heritage and its enduring impact on world history.
Miniature Sheet Details
Catalogue Number: MS2889
Release Date: 24 June 1989
Dimensions: 78mm x 105mm
Perforation: Perf 13
Face Value: 2.20f per stamp (8.80f for the full sheet)
Designers: Marie-Noëlle Goffin and A. Rouhier
Printing Method: Recess and photo
Colour Scheme: Multi-coloured
Market Value
- Catalogue Value: £7.00 unused / £7.75 used
The sheet features four stamps, each with a face value of 2.20f, depicting notable revolutionary personalities. Together, they tell the story of courage, intellect, and action that defined the French Revolution.
The Four Revolutionary Personalities
- Madame Roland (1754–1793)
- Contribution: A key figure in the Girondin political faction, Madame Roland is remembered for her intelligence, eloquence, and steadfast belief in liberty. Her salon became a meeting place for revolutionary leaders, where ideas about democracy and reform flourished.
- Depiction: The stamp shows Madame Roland in her final moments before execution, delivering her famous last words, “O Liberty, what crimes are committed in thy name!” Her poised figure against a Parisian backdrop captures her unyielding spirit.
- Camille Desmoulins (1760–1794)
- Contribution: Known as the “Voice of the Revolution,” Desmoulins inspired the storming of the Bastille with his fiery rhetoric. A skilled journalist, he edited revolutionary pamphlets like Le Vieux Cordelier and passionately advocated for liberty.
- Depiction: The stamp portrays him rallying a crowd, his arm outstretched, calling the citizens of Paris to action. His passion and charisma are brought to life in vivid detail.
- Marquis de Condorcet (1743–1794)
- Contribution: A philosopher and mathematician, Condorcet was a staunch advocate for human rights and women’s equality. His progressive ideas on education and governance influenced revolutionary thought.
- Depiction: The stamp shows Condorcet standing with a manuscript in hand, symbolizing his intellectual contributions to the revolution. The backdrop of a revolutionary assembly emphasizes his role as a thinker and legislator.
- Major General François Kellermann (1735–1820)
- Contribution: A military hero, Kellermann played a pivotal role in the revolutionary wars. His victory at the Battle of Valmy (1792) secured the revolution and inspired the declaration of the First French Republic.
- Depiction: The stamp captures him mounted on horseback, rallying his troops. His commanding presence and the tricolor flag evoke the triumph and unity of revolutionary France.
Design and Symbolism
The sheet’s design masterfully blends revolutionary symbolism with vibrant imagery:
- Central Theme: The title “Bicentenaire de la Révolution Française” (Bicentenary of the French Revolution) crowns the sheet, flanked by laurels and revolutionary flags, emphasizing victory and patriotism.
- Tricolor Motif: The French flag’s iconic blue, white, and red colours frame the stamps, reinforcing the revolution’s ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity.
- Phrygian Cap: The cap of liberty, a key symbol of the revolution, is prominently featured at the top of the sheet, underscoring the fight for freedom.
Historical Significance
The French Revolution (1789–1799) fundamentally reshaped France and the world, championing ideals of democracy, human rights, and equality. This miniature sheet not only commemorates revolutionary milestones but also celebrates the individuals who sacrificed and fought for these principles.
Why Collect This Sheet?
- Historical Tribute: It honours key revolutionary figures whose legacies continue to inspire democratic movements worldwide.
- Artistic Value: The intricate designs and vibrant colours make this sheet a visual delight for collectors.
- Accessibility: With a modest catalogue value, it’s an affordable yet meaningful addition to any collection.
Your Turn to Share
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Let’s continue exploring the legacy of the French Revolution, one stamp at a time!