Sunday 10 February 2013

Saint Valentine

14p stamps: Heart with cupids, roses, birds

One of a set of four PHQ stamp cards issued in 1981 on the theme of folklore.  I find it slightly odd that St Valentine would be considered folklore when he is an "official" saint, the patron saint of engaged couples, happy marriages, love, and bee-keepers (amongst other things).

The current traditions associated with Valentine's Day were apparently made up in the 14th century by Chaucer and others.  I suppose that's long enough ago to argue the case for folklore.

The other stamps in the set were Morris dancers, Medieval Mummers, and Lammastide.

This is a post for Sunday Stamps, now hosted by Violet Sky at "See it on a Postcard!"

12 comments:

  1. This is a busy stamp. The flaming hearts are an interesting touch :)

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    Replies
    1. You're right, it's busy. So busy, I hadn't noticed the flaming hearts!

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  2. Very entertaining and right on target for the upcoming sweet-heart day....

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  3. I wonder what the other folklore cards were...

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  4. That's a pretty stamp, I'd forgotten all about it until I came across a cover for that set when looking for folklore. I didn't know that St Valentine had a connection with bee keepers.

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    1. Various other things too, like epilepsy and plague which don't suit the image one bit.

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  5. I noticed the flaming hearts too! Interesting touch.
    thank you for participating.

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  6. It's a very pretty stamp, but you're right he doesn't quite fit with the other three.

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  7. I have the other three but would never have guessed that this one went with them. Dickie Valentine got nearer to folklore than the Saint.

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  8. i have this stamp ! bought it from stamp club aged 11 lol. im 40 now

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