Greek Postage Stamp 10 Lepta With Caryatid Design Appraisal

Greek Postage Stamp - 10 Lepta with Caryatid Design

This item is a single, rectangular postage stamp, featuring a design centered around a classical female figure, specifically a Caryatid. The dominant colors visible are shades of red or terracotta for the figure and surrounding elements, contrasted with blue detailing in the borders and text, all set against a lighter, possibly off-white or cream background. The stamp displays perforation along all four edges, indicating it was separated from a sheet. The central motif is a stylized depiction of a Caryatid, a sculptured female figure serving as an architectural support. She appears to be standing on a base, wearing a long, pleated or folded garment that extends to her feet. Her torso is accentuated by what looks like a V-shaped or heart-shaped upper garment in a deeper red tone. She is holding an object in her left arm, possibly a basket or a book, while her right arm hangs alongside her body, partially obscured. Her hair is styled upwards or in a bun. Around the central image, the stamp features a decorative border. The inner border consists of a string of small circular or oval shapes at the top, and a repeating triangular or arrow-like pattern along the sides, rendered in blue. Below the Caryatid, there are Greek words 'ΛΕΠΤΑ' (LEPTA) and 'ΕΛΛΑΣ' (HELLAS), also in blue. To the right of the figure, the numeral '10' is prominently displayed, signifying the stamp's denomination. The visible condition suggests some minor handling, given the slight blurring in parts of the image, but no obvious tears or significant creases are immediately apparent. The colors generally appear well-preserved. Based on the design, particularly the classical motif and the Greek text, it likely dates from the 20th century, possibly mid-century, reflecting a neoclassical or nationalistic artistic style common in Greek philately. The craftsmanship appears to be of standard postal stamp quality, achieved through a printing process that allows for fine lines and color separation.