In celebration of that which is quintessentially British, Royal Mail has released a series of stamps featuring iconic designs from the country’s impressive oeuvre. Selections range from pop-culture items like Penguin Books, Mary Quant’s mini skirt, the Mini, the ubiquitous red K2 Telephone Kiosk, the Routemaster (aka Double-Decker) Bus and the Underground Map, to the more practical, like the Concorde, the Anglepoise lamp, the Polypropylene chair and the Supermarine Mk1 Spitfire war plane. The latter feels like a controversial choice, can something designed to cause physical harm ever be considered an example of excellence?
The Concorde, theK2 Routemaster Bus and the Supermarine Spitfire.
However you may feel about that, these stamps are delightful in their simplicity. It’s a great overview of Britain’s design influence and its heyday in the swinging 60s.
The Mini Skirt, the Polypropylene Chair and the Anglepoise Lamp.
In addition to the Mint Stamps, the Royal Mail also offer Stamp Cards, and a book, with commentary by design writer Jim Davis, something for serious collectors. If you’re feeling like one, order from the Royal Mail’s website and they will ship internationally, via Air Mail of course.
January 31, 2009
