The patron saint of Poland on a postage stamp
The history of Poland told through postage stamps. On Saturday, May 8th, Poczta Polska will introduce the fourth stamp in the "Patrons of Poland" series. This year's issue commemorates the holy bishop and martyr Stanislaus of Szczepanów.
The design's author, Bożydar Grozdew, depicted the image of St. Stanislaus of Szczepanów and a floral ornament with a crowned eagle on the stamp. In addition to the stamp, Poczta Polska issued a limited edition First Day Cover (FDC) envelope. It depicts the pond at the Sanctuary of the Martyrdom of St. Stanislaus at Skałka.
" Everyone knows that St. Stanislaus the Bishop is the patron saint of Poland, but few are familiar with his person and work, and even fewer know the reasons for his conflict with the king and his resulting martyrdom. That is why, with its newest stamp, Poczta Polska wants to encourage people to learn more about this man, steadfast in his faith and deeds, " says Wiesław Włodek, vice president of Poczta Polska .
Saint Stanislaus of Szczepanów came from a deeply religious family. At around 25, he was ordained a priest. He ran the cathedral school, the library, and preached. Even then, he caught the attention of Duke Bolesław II the Generous, the future king, who soon appointed him bishop. Initially, Stanislaus advised Bolesław on state matters and witnessed his coronation as King of Poland . However, after numerous wars and land disputes, the two came into conflict. Bishop Stanislaus reprimanded him from the pulpit, and the king retaliated by calling him a traitor, which only escalated the conflict.
On April 11, 1079, Bishop Stanisław was murdered by King Bolesław II the Generous while celebrating Mass. For the bishop's murder, Bolesław lost his crown, and the people turned against him. Rome stripped the Polish king of his title as Christian ruler.
The bishop's remains were buried in the Church on Skałka, and after 10 years, they were transferred in a solemn procession to Wawel Cathedral. The saint is considered the patron saint of the unification of the fragmented and divided Poland of the Piast dynasty. For centuries, he was a symbol of resistance to tyranny.
This is the fourth release in the " Patrons of Poland " series. In 2018, the Company introduced a postage stamp featuring the likeness of Saint Stanislaus Kostka, and in 2019, a stamp commemorating Saint Adalbert. Last year, it released a philatelic release featuring the likeness of Saint Andrew Bobola.
About the stamp:
stamp designer: Bożydar Grozdew
number of stamps: 1
value: PLN 3.30
circulation: 120,000 pcs
printing technique: rotogravure
stamp format: 43 x 31.25 mm
paper: fluorescent
sales sheet: 50 stamps
date of introduction into circulation: May 8, 2021
This and other philatelic publications of Poczta Polska can be purchased at post offices and online store: www.filatelistyka.poczta-polska.pl