O2901

American Ballet

Classical Ballet

Collins Cover Announcement 

Ballet

Ballet is a specialized form of theatrical dancing using defined leg, arm, and body movements choreographed with foot positions. It can be traced to the Italian Renaissance with the formality of the ballet developing later in France. Early ballet emphasized graceful movement and carefully choreographed dance patterns. The familiar pose of a ballerina on her toes became popular in the early 1800s as the dance form entered its romantic period. In later years, Russian and American influence on ballet development has been substantial. My hand painted cachet in a combination of soft and accentuated pastels captures a graceful and dramatic moment during the performance of Swan Lake. I don't think I've ever used the term elegant before to describe one of my covers. I do so now because the cachet is exquisite and not to be missed. Ballet. Item #02901 - $12.25.

Important Note: Over the years, I've had several inquiries from new collectors wondering about my cachets. The most recent was last week. The comment they make is, "I thought your cachets were hand painted." Whenever I get such a note, I am overwhelmed and delighted. It's the highest compliment. The painting is of such quality that the collector thinks it is reproduced!

It always gives me great pleasure to respond that every bit of color on every cachet is done entirely by hand. Brush stroke by individual brush stroke. I also make the point that, should the cachet become wet, they will have their proof because the watercolors will run. When the collector writes back to me, it is with a new appreciation of the artistic quality of a Collins hand painted cachet.

I bring this topic up now for three reasons - Santa and Mrs. Claus, the Red Fox, and Ballet. These three separate and different FDCs that are being announced today are excellent examples of my timeconsuming and delicate hand painted cachets. They are created with the use of the finest of tiny brushes. They are produced with tender, loving care. And, they are three random samples that provide hands-on confirmation as to why the reputation of Collins cachets continues to grow within our special hobby.