Explore the story behind the rare 1855 East India stamp sketch — a stunning unadopted design that sheds light on the evolution of British India philately. Offered at Sephil’s.
Collectors of classic Indian philately are always on the hunt for rarities that not only showcase postal history but also artistic intent. One such gem is the 1855 East India stamp sketch — a rare unadopted design that never saw official release, yet offers a fascinating glimpse into the visual ambitions of the East India Company during the mid-19th century.
By 1854, India had already issued its first lithographed stamps, including the Scinde Dawks. However, by 1855, as postal reforms evolved and demand for clarity and production consistency increased, the need for engraved stamps led to a series of proposed designs and experiments.
The sketch now offered at Sephil’s online stamp auction reflects this transitional moment — a preliminary essay that shows the designer’s vision for what Indian stamps could have looked like.
This unadopted 1855 sketch features a classical bust of Queen Victoria, drawn in fine pencil and wash, enclosed within an ornate frame. What sets it apart from other designs of the period:
Hand-drawn precision indicating it was likely intended for engraving
Absence of denomination or inscription, suggesting it was an early concept
Aesthetic similarities with early Ceylon or Mauritius essays
Such sketches were typically submitted by engravers or designers to the East India Company’s postal authorities for approval but were ultimately set aside in favor of the issued 1855–1865 designs engraved by De La Rue.
Rarity: Only a handful of these early design essays have survived. Most were discarded or destroyed.
Historic Insight: Provides a unique look at the evolution of Indian stamp design between 1854–1856.
Investment Appeal: Sketches like these are often acquired by top philatelists and institutions due to their one-of-a-kind nature.
Aesthetic Merit: The artistic quality alone makes it a standout for exhibition pages.
This exact sketch was sourced from an old collection in the UK, carefully preserved, and is now available in our daily philatelic sale.
The 1855 East India Sketch is more than a drawing — it’s a window into the postal and political vision of colonial India. For collectors of British India, stamp design essays, and rare philatelic artwork, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity.
Browse, bid, and own a piece of history at www.sephils.com.