Laos – Scott #s 85-87

Description

This beautifully engraved 1959 Laos set (Scott #85–87) commemorates the Centenary of the Red Cross (1863–1963)—one of the most celebrated humanitarian anniversaries marked in mid-20th-century philately. Issued by the Kingdom of Laos (Royaume du Laos), the set features a touching scene of Lao women providing aid—distributing clothing, medicine, and comfort to a gathered group of children and families. The image, framed in richly patterned traditional Lao motifs, reflects both national identity and universal compassion.

Each value presents the same central artwork, distinguished by bold color frames:

• Scott #85 (4k – Brown Frame)

• Scott #86 (6k – Red Frame)

• Scott #87 (10k – Carmine-Brown Frame)

The Red Cross emblem appears prominently on each stamp, paired with French inscriptions marking the centenary. The quality of engraving is excellent, typical of Laos’s most admired early issues—the textures of clothing, the gentle expressions, and the ceremonial border work are all rendered with remarkable finesse.

All three stamps are Mint Never Hinged, with fresh gum and bright, undisturbed color. An ideal addition for collectors of Red Cross topics, humanitarian themes, Laotian history, or classic engraved material from Southeast Asia.