Bonsai Tree Forever First Class Postage Stamps

Exploring the Beauty of Bonsai Tree Forever First Class Postage Stamps

With these five Bonsai (Forever) stamps, the U.S. Postal Service celebrates the beauty of bonsai. The word "bonsai" (Japanese for "plant in a pot") refers to the art of cultivating plants — usually trees — in trays, pots, or other containers. Favorite bonsai plants include evergreens, maples, and azaleas, but many other trees and shrubs are also suitable. One of the common styles of bonsai is shown on each of these five stamps. The first stamp depicts a Sierra juniper in semi-cascade style, in which the tip projects over the pot rim but does not extend below the base. Second is a trident maple in informal upright style, in which the trunk bends slightly to the left or right. Third is a black pine in formal upright style, with the trunk straight and tapering evenly, with symmetrical branches, from base to apex. Fourth is an azalea plant in multiple-trunk style, with several trunks emerging from one root system. The fifth and final stamp shows a banyan in cascade style, in which the trunk evokes a stream flowing down a mountainside, with the tip extending below the pot's base. The plants depicted are roughly 15 to 20 inches tall. Although no one knows when the first bonsai was created, it is generally accepted that Buddhist monks brought the practice from China to Japan about a thousand years ago. The bonsai collection at the National Arboretum began in 1976 when the Nippon Bonsai Association in Tokyo, Japan, presented the people of the United States with 53 plants as part of the U.S. bicentennial commemoration. A bonsai master begins with seeds, cuttings, a naturally stunted tree, or a very young tree. Over time, he or she prunes the roots and branches, uses wire to shape and "train" the branches, and sometimes scrapes or peels bark to achieve desired effects. The plant is watered and repotted when necessary, and can live a hundred years or more. Art director and stamp designer Ethel Kessler worked with artist John D. Dawson on the "Bonsai" stamps.

Unique Design and Significance

The Bonsai Tree Forever First Class Postage Stamps offer a stunning representation of nature's artistry. Each stamp features intricately designed bonsai trees, symbolizing patience and care. Postage stamps, like these, not only serve as currency but also as miniature pieces of art. Collectors appreciate how these stamps capture the essence of bonsai culture, making them valuable for both use and collection.

Perfect for Collectors and Enthusiasts

Many philatelists seek the Bonsai Tree Forever First Class Postage Stamps to enrich their collections. They are perfect for those who love gardening or the art of bonsai, as these stamps reflect a passion for the natural world. Not only can you use them for mailing purposes, but they also serve as great conversation starters among fellow enthusiasts, fostering a sense of community.

Versatile Usage and Availability

These stamps are available for purchase at most post offices and online, ensuring easy access for everyone. They can be used for standard mailing needs, but their appeal goes beyond just sending mail. By affixing these stamps to your letters or postcards, you add a touch of elegance and beauty to your correspondence. As a result, the Bonsai Tree Forever First Class Postage Stamps are more than just practical—they are a delightful way to embrace art while connecting with others.