Kamelia

 Kamelia

Każdego roku w Vigo oraz w innych miastach hiszpańskiej prowincji Galicja organizowane są wystawy kamelii. Wydarzenia te prezentują nie tylko piękne kwiaty, ale również znaczki pocztowe, na których kamelie stanowią główny motyw.

Kamelia pochodzi z Azji, jednak jej uroda i symbolika zdobyły uznanie także w Europie. Najbardziej znaną odmianą na świecie – i także w Polsce – jest Camellia sinensis, czyli kamelia chińska, z której liści produkuje się popularną herbatę. Choć kwiaty herbaty rzadko pojawiają się na znaczkach pocztowych, to same krzewy często są przedstawiane przez poczty krajów produkujących herbatę, takich jak Indie czy Cejlon (Sri Lanka). Przykładowo, znaczek Indii (Yv. 193, 1965-75 r.) przedstawia zbiór herbaty.

Podobne motywy pojawiają się także na znaczkach Mozambiku (Yv. 812, 1981) oraz Rwandy (Yv. 973, 1980). Poczta Rwandy wielokrotnie ukazywała herbaciane krzewy.

 

Systematyka kamelii przedstawia się następująco:

• Rodzina: Theaceae
• Rodzaje: Gordonia, Laplacea, Stuartia, Schima, Franklinia, Pyrenaria, Yunnanea, Tutcheria
• Gatunki: m.in. Camellia sinensis (herbata), C. japonica, C. reticulata, C. saluanensis, C. pitardii, C. sasanqua, C. oleifera, C. tarokaja, C. hiemales, C. williansii, C. wabisuke, C. uraku, C. kissii, C. sativa oraz około 75 innych.

Wszystkie kamelie to krzewy lub małe drzewa o wiecznie zielonych, przeciwległych, błyszczących liściach. Za ojczyznę kamelii uważa się Chiny i Japonię, chociaż właściwie pochodzi ona z Bengalii – stamtąd w VI wieku n.e. trafiła do Chin. Europejczycy zetknęli się z kamelią, gdy odkrywali chińską prowincję Junan. W Chinach roślinie nadano wiele poetyckich nazw, takich jak „Miłość”, „Pomyślność” czy „Nowe Serce”. W Japonii kamelia znana jest jako tsubaki i stąd wywodzą się najpiękniejsze odmiany uprawiane na świecie, w tym słynna Camellia japonica. 

  

Kamelia japońska ma liczne odmiany, między innymi:

• yamanouchi – reprezentująca dziko rosnące gatunki na wyspach Honsiu i Okinawa,
• yukitsubaki – biała odmiana występująca na terenach, gdzie opady śniegu są częste,
• donckelaria – odmiana o czerwonych kwiatach,
  oraz m.in. orando-ko, sasanqua, cuspidata, maliflora, hemliales, oleifera, fraterna.

Poczta japońska ukazała kamelię trzykrotnie: dwukrotnie w 1961 roku (Yv. 666 i 675) oraz w 1980 roku (Yv. 1343). Herbata była prezentowana aż 44 razy na japońskich znaczkach. W Polsce natomiast, znaczek wydany w 1964 roku (Kat. Pop. nr 1403) przedstawia odmianę "Elegans" kamelii japońskiej. Dodatkowo, różne odmiany C. japonica zostały uhonorowane serią albańską wydaną w 1972 roku (Yv. 1362–68). Znaczek Wietnamu z 1964 roku (Yv. 368) przedstawia natomiast kamelię amplexicaulis Pitard.

Do Europy kamelia trafiła z Portugalii, gdzie została przywieziona z Azji przez portugalskich podróżników. Inspirując wielu wybitnych pisarzy i poetów – takich jak Emilia Pardo Bazán, Ramón del Valle-Inclán, Federico García Lorca, Eduardo Blanco Amor, Álvaro Cunqueiro, Álvaro Ruibal czy Filguceira Valverda – kamelia stała się symbolem piękna i subtelności, szczególnie obecnym w krajobrazie Galicji. Nic dziwnego, że od 1965 roku w Galicji odbywa się coroczna Międzynarodowa Wystawa Kamelii.

Choć w Polsce kamelia nie cieszy się taką popularnością jak róża, jej wizerunek pojawia się na polskich znaczkach pocztowych. Oprócz wspomnianego wcześniej znaczka z 1964 roku, kamelia zdobi również znaczek przedstawiający obraz Józefa Mehoffera pt. „Majowe słońce” (Kat. Pop. nr 1798).

  

Historia herbaty cejlońskiej

W 1867 roku James Taylor, szkocki plantator, założył pierwszą plantację herbaty w rejonie Kandy. Jego praca zapoczątkowała rozwój przemysłu herbacianego na wyspie, która wkrótce zyskała międzynarodową sławę dzięki wysokiej jakości liści herbacianych.

Setna rocznica obchodzona była w 1967 roku. To wydarzenie upamiętniało 100 lat od momentu założenia pierwszej plantacji herbaty na Cejlonie. Obchody te podkreślały znaczenie herbaty dla gospodarki wyspy oraz jej rolę na światowym rynku herbacianym.

Po wprowadzeniu herbaty przez Jamesa Taylora, plantacje szybko się rozrastały, a Cejlon stał się jednym z najważniejszych producentów herbaty na świecie. Herbatę cejlońską ceniono zarówno za jej smak, jak i aromat, co przyczyniło się do jej ogromnej popularności.

Brytyjczycy, mając na celu wykorzystanie zasobów regionu, sprowadzili na cejlońskie plantacje tamilskich pracowników z południowych Indii jako taniej siły roboczej.

W połowie XIX wieku, wraz z rozwojem plantacji herbaty, kauczuku oraz innych upraw, brytyjscy kolonizatorzy postanowili sprowadzić do Sri Lanki (wówczas Cejlonu) setki tysięcy Tamilów na zasadzie kontraktowej pracy. Ta forma migracji, choć nacechowana eksploatacją, miała również długofalowe skutki dla struktury demograficznej i kulturowej wyspy.

Jak widać, liczne znaczki pocztowe z wizerunkiem kamelii tworzą ciekawy zbiór, który zainteresuje zarówno miłośników kwiatów, jak i filatelistów. Zbiór ten opowiada historię przybycia kamelii do Europy, prezentuje jej liczne odmiany, plantacje herbaty oraz hołd złożony artystom, którzy inspirowali się tym niezwykłym kwiatem.

Na zakończenie warto wspomnieć, że kamelia (głównie Camellia japonica) jest również oficjalnym kwiatem stanu Alabama. Została ustanowiona symbolem stanu w 1959 roku, zastępując wcześniejszy symbol – nawłoć, która pełniła tę funkcję od 1927 roku.

Wydano przeszło 380 znaczków z kamelią i około 50 znaczków z herbatą.

Is it worth collecting poster stamps?

 Is it worth collecting poster stamps?

© Andrzej Philips

 Wawel Gedenket der Flüchtlinge

       

Advertising stamps caught my interest when I came across the following stamp. It depicts Wawel - write something about Wawel.  Wawel is a historic architectural complex in Krakow, Poland, renowned for its Royal Castle and Cathedral. It served as the residence of Polish kings for centuries and is celebrated for its blend of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. Wawel's rich history and cultural significance make it a cherished symbol of Poland's heritage.

The stamp bears the signature of H. Rauchinger in the bottom right corner. It was designed by Heinrich Rauchinger between 1915 and 1918. The inscription Gedenket der Flüchtlinge means Remember the Refugees).

This poster stamp is a small yet poignant artifact reflecting the historical context of its time. Designed by Heinrich Rauchinger during World War I, it was created to draw attention to the plight of refugees. The inclusion of the Wawel Castle, a symbol of Polish heritage and resilience, underscores the national and cultural significance behind the call to remember those displaced by the war.

The stamp's design incorporates elements of Autotype printing, which allows for detailed and nuanced imagery, suitable for capturing the solemn and evocative message intended by Rauchinger. As a work of art, it highlights Rauchinger's skill in combining visual elements with a powerful social message.

The signature of H. Rauchinger and the specific mention of Wawel tie the object directly to Polish history and culture, making it a valuable piece for collectors and historians alike. It reflects the broader efforts during the early 20th century to use art and print media as tools for social awareness and humanitarian appeals.

Heinrich Rauchinger's poster stamp Gedenket der Flüchtlinge serves as a historical document and an artistic expression, reminding us of the humanitarian crises of the past and the role of art in addressing social issues. Its preservation in a collection highlights its enduring significance and the importance of remembering the past through such artifacts.

 

What are poster stamps?

Poster stamps, also known as Cinderella stamps, hold a unique place in the world of philately. Unlike traditional postage stamps issued by postal authorities for the purpose of mailing, poster stamps are primarily designed for advertising, promotion, or commemoration. They often feature colorful designs, artistic illustrations, and thematic imagery, making them attractive to collectors.

The term "poster stamp" originated because these stamps often resembled miniature posters in their design and aesthetics. Many poster stamps were either “poster-like” in appearance or exact miniature replicas of larger street posters. Their colorful and detailed artwork was especially eye-catching during the early 1900s, a time when color printing was still relatively expensive and not commonly used. This vivid, poster-like quality made these stamps stand out and quickly catch the public’s attention.

The decision to collect poster stamps ultimately depends on individual preferences and interests. Here are some factors to consider when determining if it's worth collecting them:

1. Historical Significance: Poster stamps offer insights into various aspects of history, including advertising trends, cultural movements, and significant events. They can serve as valuable artifacts, providing a glimpse into the past and shedding light on social, political, and economic contexts.

2. Artistic Value: Many poster stamps showcase intricate artwork, innovative designs, and creative concepts. For art enthusiasts, collecting poster stamps can be a rewarding pursuit, offering exposure to a diverse range of artistic styles and techniques.

3. Thematic Diversity: Poster stamps cover a wide range of themes, including sports, entertainment, transportation, politics, and more. Collectors have the flexibility to focus on specific themes that align with their interests, allowing for a personalized and diverse collection.

4. Accessibility: Unlike traditional postage stamps, which may have limited availability or require significant financial investment, poster stamps are often more accessible and affordable. They can be found through various channels, including online marketplaces, stamp shows, and specialty shops.

5. Community Engagement: Collecting poster stamps can be a social and community-oriented activity. Enthusiasts have the opportunity to connect with fellow collectors, attend stamp exhibitions, participate in trading events, and engage in discussions about their shared interests.

6. Educational Value: Poster stamps offer educational opportunities for both collectors and enthusiasts. Researching the history, context, and significance of poster stamps can enhance one's knowledge and appreciation of art, culture, and society.

Ultimately, the decision to collect poster stamps should be driven by personal enjoyment, curiosity, and passion. Whether you're drawn to their historical significance, artistic appeal, thematic diversity, or community engagement, collecting poster stamps can be a rewarding hobby that offers both enjoyment and enrichment.

Poster stamps are a unique category of philatelic items resembling regular postage stamps but not used for postal services. They encompass a broad range of subtypes, including revenue stamps printed by national governments for tax payments, local stamps used for regional deliveries, and most notably, privately printed stamps for advertising or propaganda purposes. These privately produced stamps are the primary focus for collectors and are known as poster stamps in the United States. They are distinguished by their striking graphic designs, larger sizes, vivid colors, and bold, eye-catching aesthetics, often mimicking the appearance of full-sized posters.

The term poster stamp refers to a type of cinderella stamp that resembles a miniature poster. They are typically used for advertising, propaganda, or commemorative purposes and are not valid for postage. Below are translations of poster stamp in several languages:

The poster stamps in other langauges: German: Werbemarke, Vignette publicitaire or timbre affiche, Italian: Francobollo pubblicitario, Spanish: Sello de publicidad or sello póster, Znaczek reklamowy, Dutch: Reclamezegel, Portuguese: Selo de publicidade, Russian: Рекламная марка (Reklamnaya marka)

Poster stamps are a fascinating aspect of philately and graphic design history, reflecting the cultural and commercial trends of their times. They were particularly popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, especially in Europe and North America. Collectors value them for their artistic designs and historical significance.

 

Henryk Rauchinger: An Austro-Polish Portraitist

 

Henryk Rauchinger, born on January 1, 1858, in Krakow, embarked on a remarkable artistic journey that spanned the vibrant cultural landscapes of Krakow, Vienna, and beyond. A painter of Polish descent, Rauchinger's passion for art led him to study at the Krakow School of Fine Arts under the esteemed Jan Matejko. Continuing his artistic education, he honed his skills at the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna, where he studied under August Eisenmenger and Christian Griepenkerl.

Rauchinger's talent as a portraitist flourished, earning him recognition within artistic circles. He showcased his works at exhibitions in Vienna and Krakow, including presentations at the Society of Friends of Fine Arts in Krakow from 1883 to 1899. Notably, in 1894, he participated in an exhibition of Polish art in Lviv (Lwów), where he presented a portrait of Zenon Przesmycki, a Polish poet known by the pseudonym Miriam.

Portrait of Karolina Zakrzeńska née Święcicka [wikimedia]

Throughout his career, Rauchinger received numerous accolades for his artistry. His portraits, characterized by meticulous attention to detail and a profound sense of emotion, earned him widespread acclaim. Among his notable achievements were portraits of prominent figures such as Stefan Zweig and Bertha von Suttner, reflecting his ability to capture the essence of his subjects on canvas.

Henryk Rauchinger - In hard labor (exile to Siberia) 1886 [National Museum in Krakow]

Despite his artistic success, Rauchinger's life took a tragic turn with the onset of Nazi persecution. In 1942, at the age of 84, he was arrested and deported to the Theresienstadt concentration camp, where he ultimately perished. His final days remain shrouded in uncertainty, with his fate officially recognized by court order in 1948.

Rauchinger's legacy endures through his art, serving as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. In 2018, his name was commemorated in an exhibition at the Volkskundemuseum Wien, honoring his contributions to art and bearing witness to the enduring power of creativity in the face of tyranny.

Henryk Rauchinger's journey embodies the transformative power of art, transcending borders and generations to leave an indelible mark on the annals of history. Through his portraits, he immortalized the souls of his subjects, ensuring that their stories endure as a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit.

Henryk Rauchinger was a notable Polish artist known for his contributions to the journal Life (Życie), which played a significant role in the Polish modernist movement. Rauchinger created the first title vignette for the inaugural issue of Life in 1897, which set a visual tone for the publication. His work, alongside other prominent Polish artists, contributed to the visual and thematic identity of the journal.

Rauchinger's artistic involvement in Life was part of a broader effort to establish a Polish voice within the modernist discourse. The journal's illustrative content, including Rauchinger's vignettes, often featured Symbolist and Art Nouveau influences, reflecting the international trends in art while embedding a distinct Polish perspective.

Throughout its publication, Life showcased a variety of artistic styles and themes, including idealized femininity, nostalgic landscapes, and allegorical motifs. Rauchinger and his contemporaries, such as Stanisław Wyspiański and Teodor Axentowicz, contributed to this rich visual program, which helped to legitimize and promote modernist ideas within Poland.

In summary, Henryk Rauchinger played a pivotal role in the early visual direction of Life, helping to shape the journal's aesthetic and thematic approach, which was crucial in integrating Polish contributions into the broader narrative of modernism.

Following the trail of this poster stamp, I began to search for information about Henryk Rauchinger. In the National Museum in Krakow, there is a postcard with a portrait of Henryk Rauchinger. On the back, there is a note that reads, 'To beloved Dr. Jasienski and esteemed Mrs. Janina in memory of Henryk Rauchinger.

 

A new question arises: Who is Dr. Jasieński?

 

Feliks Jasieński: A Patron of Art and Collector Extraordinaire

 

Feliks Jasieński, bearing the coat of arms of Dołęga, was born on July 8, 1861, in Grzegorzewice, Poland, into the esteemed Jasieński family. His life's journey intertwined with the rich tapestry of Polish history, marked by his significant contributions to the world of art as a critic and collector.

Wojciech Weiss, Portrait of Feliks Jasieński, 1903, National Museum in Krakow

 

Descended from the illustrious Jasieński family, renowned participants of the Four-Year Sejm and one of the most affluent and influential landed gentry families in the Sandomierz region during the 19th century, Feliks's upbringing was privileged yet tumultuous. His educational path was unconventional, marked by challenges and interruptions. Despite repeating the fourth grade, he completed his schooling without sitting for final exams.

Feliks's insatiable thirst for knowledge led him to pursue higher education in Dorpat (now Tartu, Estonia). However, his studies were cut short due to eye illness. Undeterred, he embarked on extensive travels across Europe, Egypt, and Asia Minor, immersing himself in diverse cultures and artistic influences. Residing at various times in Warsaw, Krakow, and Lviv, he became an integral part of Krakow's artistic milieu, engaging with the city's bohemian circles and participating in the famed Zielony Balonik (Green Balloon) evenings.

An accomplished writer, Feliks Jasieński contributed articles and essays to prominent publications such as Chimera, and Lamus, where he served as literary director. In 1901, he published a collection of essays titled Manggha. Promenades à travers les mondes, l'art et les idées, showcasing his erudition and broad cultural interests. Collaborating with Adam Cybulski-Łada, he co-authored the 1904 album “Sztuka Polska. Malarstwo” (Polish Art. Painting), further cementing his reputation as a discerning critic and promoter of Polish art.

Feliks Jasieński's pseudonym, Manggha, derived from a collection of woodcuts by the Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai, reflected his fascination with Japanese art. His extensive travels enabled him to amass a diverse collection of European and Japanese artworks, textiles, and antiquities. Settling in Krakow in 1901, he emerged as a patron of the arts, nurturing the talents of young artists and championing the modernist movement.

His eclectic collection, which included over 15,000 exhibits, was bequeathed to the city of Krakow in 1920, with the condition that it would form an integral part of the National Museum in Krakow and be accessible to the public. As the lifetime director of the donated collection, he continually enriched its holdings, ensuring its significance for future generations.

Feliks Jasieński's legacy endures through the Manggha Centre of Japanese Art and Technology in Krakow, established with funds from Andrzej Wajda's Kyoto Prize in 1987. Named in his honor, the center preserves and showcases his remarkable collection, serving as a testament to his enduring passion for art and cultural exchange.

Though Feliks Jasieński passed away on April 6, 1929, his contributions to the world of art continue to inspire and enrich the cultural landscape of Poland and beyond. As his collection continues to captivate audiences at the Manggha Centre, his vision of art as a bridge between nations lives on, transcending boundaries and fostering understanding in an ever-changing world.

 

Janina Jasieńska: A Partner in Passion for Art

 

Beside Feliks Jasieński stood Janina Jasieńska, nee Biegel, a woman of grace and refinement whose presence illuminated the vibrant circles of Krakow's artistic milieu. Born in 1870, Janina shared Feliks' passion for culture and creativity, enriching their shared journey with her intellect and elegance.

 

Married to Henryk Jasieński in 1887, Janina played an integral role in her husband's life, providing unwavering support for his endeavors as a critic and collector. Together, they fostered an environment of artistic exploration and appreciation, hosting gatherings that brought together luminaries of the Polish cultural scene.

 

Janina's influence extended beyond the confines of their home, as she actively participated in cultural events and initiatives alongside Feliks. Her keen intellect and refined taste complemented Feliks' bold vision, contributing to the couple's enduring legacy as patrons of the arts.

 

Though her life remains somewhat veiled in the shadows of history, Janina's presence undoubtedly enriched Feliks' journey, serving as a steadfast companion in his pursuit of artistic excellence. In commemorating Feliks Jasieński's legacy, let us also honor Janina's contributions as a partner in passion for art, whose grace and elegance left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Krakow and beyond.

 

Teresa Jasieńska and Henryk Jasieński: the Guardians of Cultural Heritage

 

After the death of Janina, Feliks Jasieński married Teresa Jasieńska, nee Łabęcka. Born into the noble Łabęcki family, Teresa shared Feliks's passion for culture and creativity, enriching their shared journey with her grace and elegance.

Henryk Jasieński, son of Feliks Aleksander Jan Jasieński and Teresa Jasieńska, was born on October 9, 1888, in Kielce-Pisary. He inherited a rich legacy of art and culture from his esteemed parents and dedicated his life to preserving and promoting cultural heritage.

Growing up in an environment steeped in artistic fervor, Henryk absorbed his parents' passion for creativity and cultural exploration. Their home in Krakow served as a vibrant hub of intellectual discourse and artistic exchange, nurturing Henryk Jr.'s innate curiosity and love for the arts from an early age.

Following in his father's footsteps, Henryk embarked on a mission to safeguard Poland's cultural heritage. With deep reverence for art and history, he became the custodian of his family's extensive collection, ensuring its preservation for future generations. His commitment to cultural stewardship extended beyond the confines of his familial legacy as he actively engaged in initiatives to protect and promote Poland's rich artistic heritage.

In addition to his role as a guardian of cultural heritage, Henryk was also a devoted husband to Halina Magdalena Jasieńska, sharing with her a passion for art and culture. Together, they continued the Jasieński family's tradition of patronage and philanthropy, supporting various cultural endeavors and initiatives.

Henryk Jasieński Jr.'s legacy is one of unwavering dedication to preserving Poland's cultural heritage and fostering a deeper appreciation for its artistic treasures. His tireless efforts as a custodian of art and culture continue to enrich the cultural landscape of Krakow and Poland, ensuring that future generations inherit a legacy of beauty, creativity, and cultural enlightenment.

 

And all of this we deduced from a small stamp with the following dimensions:  hight: 3.5 cm, width: 2.8 cm. Is it worth collecting poster stamps?

The article is subject to copyright - use requires attribution of the author and source of the article

---

50th anniversary of the API Post Office

 June 22, 2024 - 50th anniversary of the API Post Office.

The similarity with the stamps of New Caledonia is not accidental.

New Caledonia - stamps from 1928 showing a view of a bay with mangroves (in French: palétuvier)

Ancient Russian Knight, Bogatyr Ilya Muromets

©Andrzej Philips

 

       

  

 

Most collectors know this stamp. Different designs of this stamp were issued in Russia in 1914 and 1915. The catalogue description: Ancient Russian Knight, Bogatyr Ilya Muromets, series “For the Benefit of Soldiers and Their Families” The stamp was  designed by famous deisgner Rihards Zariņš.

The Russian word "богатырь" (bogatyr) is best translated into English as "warrior hero" or "heroic warrior." This word refers to a legendary hero in ancient Russian oral epic tales (bylinas) who is known for superhuman strength and bravery.

Ilya Muromets, also known as Ilya Morovlin, Muravlenin, Murovets, Muromlyan, and Ilya the Dragon Slayer, is one of the principal heroes of the ancient Russian and Russian epic poems, known as byliny. He is a legendary bogatyr (warrior hero), the son of a peasant, hailing from Northeastern Rus, who came to serve in Kyiv under Prince Vladimir and led the defense of Ancient Rus.

The son of a peasant, Ilya was born in the village of Karacharovo, near Murom[1]. Ilya Muromets was born paralyzed and could not walk until he was 33 years old. He could only lie on a Russian stove, until he was miraculously healed by two pilgrims. After his miraculous recovery, he performed numerous heroic deeds, including defeating the Nightingale the Robber, fighting idols and Tatars. In the end, Ilya is said to have turned to stone.

 

A USSR postage stamp issued in 1988 features an illustration by Raisa Smirnova[2] titled "Ilya Muromets." The stamp's se-tenant label describes bylinas: "Bylina - epic songs composed by the Russian people, reflecting the reality of Rus' in the 11th-16th centuries. The heroes of the epics are warriors, possessing high moral qualities and selfless devotion to the homeland."

 

The first written mention of Ilya Muromets dates back to the 16th century, where he appears in the works of F.S. Kmita-Chernobylsky as Ilya Muravlenin and in the accounts of Erich Lassota as the giant Ilya Morovlin in the St. Sophia Cathedral of Kyiv. In various bylinas he is also referred to as Morovets, Murovets, Muravlenin, and Morovlyanin.

Ilya Muromets' image has been widely represented in literature, music, painting, and cinema. Many researchers identify him with Saint Elijah Pechersky the Cobbler, whose relics rest in the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra.

Ilya Muromets is commemorated on December 19 (January 1) and also on September 25 (October 8). On these days, Saint Elijah of Murom (Pechersky), revered by Russians, is often conflated with the legendary hero Ilya Muromets. In many provinces of the Russian Empire, it was believed that Ilya Muromets rode across the sky "on six horses," which explained the thunder. In various regions, where his horse was believed to have struck springs with its hoof, chapels were erected in the name of Saint Elijah. His association with thunder and springs also linked the legendary bogatyr to the prophet Elijah, and thus he was also remembered on Elijah's Day.

The prophet Elijah, also spelled as "Elias" in some traditions, is a significant figure in several religious traditions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. He is primarily known for his role as a prophet in the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) and is revered as one of the greatest prophets in these religious traditions. In the Hebrew Bible, Elijah appears in the First and Second Books of Kings. He is depicted as a fearless and zealous prophet who lived during the reign of King Ahab and Queen Jezebel in the northern kingdom of Israel. Elijah's ministry was marked by his condemnation of idolatry, particularly the worship of the Canaanite god Baal, which was promoted by Ahab and Jezebel.

 

A Serbian stamp, issued in 2023, presenting Holy Prophet Elijah,  who popularly known as Ilija the Thunderer, is commemorated on August 2.

 

Elijah is famous for several miraculous deeds, including the raising of the dead, bringing fire down from heaven, and challenging the prophets of Baal to a contest on Mount Carmel, where he proved the supremacy of the God of Israel by calling fire down to consume his offering. After his victory over the prophets of Baal, Elijah fled into the wilderness, where he encountered God in a still, small voice.

 

According to the biblical account, Elijah did not die but was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind, accompanied by a chariot of fire and horses of fire. This event is known as the "ascension of Elijah" and is one of the most memorable episodes in his story.

Elijah is revered for his unwavering faithfulness to God, his boldness in confronting injustice and idolatry, and his role as a harbinger of the Messiah in Jewish tradition. In Christianity, Elijah is often seen as a precursor to John the Baptist, and his appearance alongside Moses at the Transfiguration of Jesus affirms his continued importance in Christian theology.

In Islam, Elijah is known as "Ilyas" and is considered a prophet and messenger of God. He is mentioned in the Quran, where he is revered for his righteousness and devotion to God.

 

 

---

[1] Murom is a historical city in Vladimir Oblast, Russia, which sprawls along the west bank of the Oka River.

[2] Illustrator Raisa Alexeevna Smirnova was born on August 1, 1935, in the village of Morshan-Lyadovka, Inzhevinsky District, Voronezh Region. She became a member of the Union of Artists of the RSFSR in 1971. From 1952 to 1957, she studied at the Palekh Art School, where her teachers included A.V. Borunov, D.N. Butorin, and I.P. Vakurov. Between 1963 and 1989, she worked at the Palekh Artistic Production Workshops. Raisa Smirnova passed away on July 31, 1996, and was buried in Palekh [https://palekh.narod.ru/win/smirn_ra.htm].

The history of the sunflower

 

   

The history of the sunflower, scientifically known as Helianthus annuus, is rich and diverse. Here's a brief overview:

1. **Origin**: Sunflowers are native to North America and were domesticated around 3000 BCE by Indigenous peoples in what is now present-day Mexico and the southern United States. They were cultivated for their seeds, which were not only a food source but also used for medicinal and ceremonial purposes.

 2. **Spread to Europe**: Sunflowers were introduced to Europe by Spanish explorers in the 16th century. Initially, they were grown as ornamental plants before their value as an oilseed crop was recognized.

 3. **Cultivation for Oil**: By the 18th century, sunflowers were cultivated extensively in Russia for their oil content. Russian farmers selectively bred sunflower varieties with high oil content, leading to the development of modern oilseed sunflower varieties.

 4. **Commercialization**: In the 19th century, Russian sunflower oil gained popularity in Europe, and by the late 19th and early 20th centuries, sunflower cultivation had spread to other parts of Europe and the world.

 5. **Modern Cultivation**: Today, sunflowers are grown commercially in many countries, including Russia, Ukraine, Argentina, the United States, and China. They are primarily cultivated for their seeds, which are used for oil extraction, as snacks, and in baking and cooking. Sunflower oil is one of the most popular vegetable oils globally due to its light flavor, high smoke point, and nutritional profile.

  

 6. **Symbolism and Cultural Significance**: Sunflowers have symbolic importance in various cultures. They are often associated with the sun, positivity, and longevity. In art, literature, and mythology, sunflowers have been depicted as symbols of hope, adoration, and loyalty.

 Overall, the sunflower's journey from its origins in North America to its global cultivation and symbolic significance reflects its importance in human history and culture.

The Latin name "Helianthus annuus"  translates to "annual sunflower," with each component having its own meaning:

 1. "Helianthus" comes from the Greek words "helios," meaning "sun," and "anthos," meaning "flower." So, "Helianthus" refers to a plant that follows the sun, as sunflowers are known to do, tracking its movement across the sky during the day.

 2. "Annuus" is derived from the Latin word "annuus," meaning "annual" or "yearly." It refers to the fact that sunflowers typically complete their life cycle within a year, growing, flowering, producing seeds, and then dying in a single growing season.

The most famous are "Sunflowers" by Vincent van Gogh.

Vincent van Gogh created a series of paintings featuring sunflowers, with variations in composition, color palette, and style. The exact number of paintings in the "Sunflowers" series is a matter of interpretation and classification, as some artworks are considered part of the series while others may be related but not officially included.

 Typically, there are considered to be five main paintings in van Gogh's "Sunflowers" series, which are recognized as iconic representations of his exploration of color, texture, and form:

 1. "Sunflowers" (F453), painted in 1888, currently housed at the National Gallery in London.

2. "Sunflowers" (F455), also painted in 1888, currently located at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam.

3. "Sunflowers" (F456), created in 1888, now held by the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

4. "Sunflowers" (F458), painted in 1889, housed at the Neue Pinakothek in Munich.

5. "Sunflowers" (F459), completed in 1889, currently in the collection of the Seiji Togo Memorial Sompo Japan Nipponkoa Museum of Art in Tokyo.

 

 In addition to these main paintings, there are other related works, including still lifes and studies of sunflowers, which are sometimes considered part of the broader "Sunflowers" series. Overall, the "Sunflowers" series remains one of van Gogh's most celebrated and recognizable bodies of work.

Doctor Zhivago (English version)

My article Doctor Zhivago