Each few years the face of the basic stamps for sending letters in France changes. And of course the prices go up…


Fed up with Carla Bruni? Well as an antidote, feast your eyes on Marianne. The allegorical emblem of the French Republic, she’s to be found on all government documents, numerous statues and paintings, and our lowly postage stamps.

With each new president (thanks Nicolas) comes a new stamp design. In the past they have been inspired by Brigitte Bardot or Catherine Deneuve. This one on the right (from 1961) was drawn by Jean Cocteau! The new version is not based on anyone in particular and will be available from 1st July 2008, the day that France takes over the presidency of the European Union. It is supposed to show Marianne (and by association, France) as elegant, serene, giving an impression of action and movement, as shown by the wind in her hair.

Whether you agree or not, you’re bound to come across her; 2.5 billion stamps are sold every year with her face on them…

Here’s a quick look at past Mariannes…