Greetings to the Iraqi Republic explores the design history of Iraqi nationalism through the lens of first day covers and postage stamps. The illustrations and imprints featured here are published alongside essays by Ben Rejali and Monia al-Haidary unpacking the symbolism and political histories behind the designs.
In this selection of first day covers and postage stamps, the history of Iraq passes before our eyes. For those unfamiliar with the term, a first day of issue cover, or first day cover, is a collectible envelope created by stamp-collectors when the government issues a new stamp. From the golden era of Arab nationalism and the rise of Saddam Hussein to recent battles with the Islamic State and Pope Francis’s visit to Najaf, these first day covers depict it all.
In the internet age, the first day cover has become a forgotten art form with no institutional archives or art galleries holding them. Many of the first day covers included in this publication were designed by the Iraqi Philatelic Society, an association for stamp enthusiasts active from the 1950s to the early 2000s.
16 pages
Tabloid Newsprint
