55th AUCTION - Day 5

55th AUCTION at 20. February - 24 February 2023

Was it easier to determine the color of stamps in the past? And was it better?

In the days when people collected almost exclusively "by catalog," it was probably easier from today's perspective. The collector relied on the information in the catalog, on his eyes and his color sense. The illustrated "color chart" of the Senf brothers, which probably dates from the 1930s, was a step forward, especially since original stamps were glued in as a guide. You simply felt well advised. Even if it was pointed out that these were "basic colors".

Almost a century later, however, the world looks different. New techniques and measurement capabilities can analyze almost any hue, break down the composition of color mixtures, and thus generate more precise color designations. Luminance, Lab color space, HSV color space and ICC profile etc. are discussed in relevant forums. The Michel catalog and the Michel color guide also get their due. Of course, the meticulous examination of colors with the most modern technical means is sometimes necessary to prove color falsifications. For practical use, however, a typification of the color variants should be sufficient, as it is done in color guides and catalogs. Not only the collectors, but also the trade, the auction houses and last but not least the examiners need a practicable tool for color determination, one that reflects the "prevailing opinion". Of course, this tool must always be adapted in the light of new findings.

To answer the question asked at the beginning: In the past, some things may have been easier with the color chart of the Mustard company - but it was not better, because today, new findings from many sides are constantly flowing into the common color determination. This ensures permanent updating.

We at Auktionshaus Gärtner therefore adhere to the color regulations of the current catalogs and to the information in reports and certificates. In this way, we offer our customers security and transparency.

We cordially invite you to the viewing and the auction days in February.

Yours

Christoph Gärtner and Team

Yours

Christoph Gärtner