Queen Victoria 'Dardenne' Lithograph

Mauritius · 1859 · 2d

This stamp features a seated Britannia design, a classic motif of the British Empire, with the portrait of Queen Victoria. It is known as the 'Dardenne' issue, named after the lithographer, Jules Dardenne. The design is a local imitation of the contemporary British stamps, printed in a distinctive blue color.

Issued during the British colonial period, this stamp represents an early and locally produced issue from Mauritius, following the legendary 'Post Office' issues. These lithographed stamps were created to meet postal demand when supplies from Great Britain were unavailable.