In the realm of philately, maximum cards hold a special place, combining the art of postcards, stamps, and cancellations in a harmonious celebration of history and culture. This 1913 maximum card from Djibouti provides a remarkable look into the Hamoudi Mosque, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
The Front: A View of the Hamoudi Mosque
The postcard features a photograph of the Hamoudi Mosque, a significant historical and cultural monument in Djibouti City. Built in 1906 by Haji Hamoudi, a Djiboutian of Yemeni descent, the mosque stands as one of the oldest and most prominent in the capital. Its architectural simplicity reflects the enduring legacy of Islamic heritage in the Horn of Africa.
Located near the Mahmoud Harbi Market, the mosque continues to be a vital religious and community hub. The image beautifully captures the mosque’s timeless appeal, with people bustling around its surroundings, emphasizing its role in the daily life of early 20th-century Djibouti.
The Reverse: A Philatelic Gem
On the reverse side, the postcard is addressed locally, making it a rare and historically significant item. It bears:
- A stamp from the French Somali Coast (Côte Française des Somalis), showcasing a traditional dhow on the Gulf of Tadjoura, issued during French colonial administration.
- A clear circular cancellation from Djibouti dated 5 August 1913, further enhancing its philatelic value.
This combination of the postcard, stamp, and postmark creates a maximum card, where all three elements share a thematic connection, a hallmark of this specialized branch of philately.
A Brief History of Maximum Cards
Interestingly, the origins of maximum cards can be traced back to 1893 in Egypt, when a tourist affixed a stamp depicting the Sphinx and pyramids on the view side of a postcard featuring the same landmarks. Though initially accidental, this practice gained popularity, and by 1978, the International Federation of Philately (FIP) recognized maximaphily as an official branch of philately.
Philatelic and Historical Significance
- Cultural Heritage: The Hamoudi Mosque, built over a century ago, stands as a symbol of Djibouti’s Islamic and Yemeni heritage.
- French Colonial Influence: The postcard and stamp reflect Djibouti’s status as a French colony during the early 20th century, offering insights into the region’s colonial history.
- Maximaphily: This early example of a maximum card demonstrates the interplay of stamp design, postcard imagery, and cancellation marks in creating a unified thematic piece.
The Legacy of the Hamoudi Mosque
As one of Djibouti’s most enduring landmarks, the Hamoudi Mosque continues to serve as a spiritual center and a testament to the region’s rich cultural tapestry. Its inclusion on this maximum card immortalizes its significance during a transformative period in Djibouti’s history.
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