France – Scott #s 997-01

Description

Issued in 1962, this complete mint never hinged set (Scott #997–1001) honors five iconic figures of French theatre and performance, spanning classical tragedy, Romantic drama, and modern stage and film. Each stamp presents a finely engraved portrait set within a theatrical framing motif, evoking the stage curtain and reinforcing the series’ dramatic theme.

The set includes:
• Mademoiselle Champmeslé (1642–1698), celebrated interpreter of Racine’s heroines
• François-Joseph Talma (1763–1826), reformer of classical stage acting
• Rachel Félix (1821–1858), leading actress of the Comédie-Française
• Raimu (1883–1946), famed stage and film actor associated with Marcel Pagnol
• Gérard Philipe (1922–1959), influential postwar stage and screen actor

Denominations range from 0.20f to 0.50f, with each stamp color-keyed while maintaining strong visual unity across the series. The portraits balance realism and idealization, reflecting France’s long tradition of honoring cultural achievement through philately.

All five stamps are offered mint never hinged, with full original gum, clean margins, sharp perforations, and fresh, unfaded color throughout. An excellent set for collectors of France, theatre history, film, and performing-arts topicals.

• Country: France

• Year of Issue: 1962

• Scott Numbers: 997–1001

• Condition: Mint Never Hinged (MNH)

• Set Size: 5 stamps