Canadian stamp stories

Issue date: November 4, 2019

The Gospel According to Matthew, the first book of the New Testament, recounts the arrival of the Magi in Bethlehem, after they followed a star that heralded the birth of a king. Our latest Christmas issue celebrates their long journey, their discovery of the infant Jesus, their offerings of gold, frankincense and myrrh, and their deep belief in the importance of his birth.

Created by Liz Wurzinger and Timothy King at Subplot Design Inc. and illustrated by Michael Little, the stamp is a simple two-colour design. The look is echoed on the Official First Day Cover, which features the shepherds from the Nativity story in the Gospel of Luke. The cover’s cancel location – King City, Ontario – is an allusion to the Magi, who are also known as the Three Kings or Wise Men.

“Michael’s skill was essential to finding the right balance between fine detail and the larger picture,” explains Wurzinger. “This stamp captures the essence of the journey – one that anticipates the wonder, awe and expectation of the Christmas season.”