This week, we’re diving into the “black and white” theme with a fascinating set from Finland’s contribution to the 2009 Europa stamp series: Astronomy. While the stamps may not be pure black and white in the strictest sense, they utilise different shades of grey.
The stamp I have features the majestic ringed planet Saturn dominating the scene, accompanied by a streaking comet to its left, and a lunar eclipse above. These celestial events are all rendered in a beautiful greyscale palette, creating mystery and depth.
Here is the complete set, taken from Google image search.
The companion stamp in the set showcases the moon and the soft glow of the Milky Way on its right. Both stamps are set in a fantasy lake surrounded by these heavenly bodies. The beauty of these stamps lie in their ability to evoke awe-inspiring universe without relying on vibrant colours, and allows (and excites) collectors and enthusiasts to focus on the subject matter – that is the wonders of the universe and the intrigue of space exploration.
Check out Sunday Stamps for more black and white offerings this week.
Sometimes black and white just look better. Clearer maybe. Those are nice. The craters on the moon are crisp.
Absolutely, Lisa! Black and white can often bring out details in a way that color photos can’t.
Oh, so beautiful!
It is a great design, with a certain mystery on it.
These do make Earth look like the small speck in the universe that we are!
Wonderful to see the two stamps together.
That is really a great stamp!
I nice SciFi feel to the stamp. Finland I think would be the perfect place to star gaze with its dark skies and lakes.