Mel Crawford (Canadian, B. 1925) "Spain" Signed lower right. Original Mixed Media on Illustration Board.

Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation.

This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover of the U.N. 25c Spain Flags of the U.N. Series stamp issued September 14, 1988.

A country of thirty-three million people, Spain is as diverse as its populace. A peninsula divided by many mountain ranges, Spain has always been home to a variety of cultures and regions. Once a great empire, this land has also served as a crossroad to conquest and to trade routes leading to riches. Thus, through history, Spain has been the scene of many wars, invasions and conflicts. Still, her people have developed a strong pride in their traditions. Today, they are proud of their common Spanish heritage, despite the regional differences. In remote villages of Catalonia along the Balearic Sea, in the three Basque Provinces, in the mountain country of Navarre, in northwestern Galicia and indeed throughout all Spain, the people share a sense of personal dignity and hold the qualities of honor and courage in highest esteem. The culture reflects it. Spanish art is often strong and bold, its native dances like the flamenco -- are fiery and determined. And, of course, the pastime for which Spain is known the world over -- the bull fight -- is a mirror of the passion and romance of the Spanish soul. Even in its architecture, Spain reflects centuries of pride. Its castles are so beautiful that daydreamers around the world are accused of "building castles in Spain." Today, Spanish cities are accented by the glories of the past as magnificent museums and fabulous monuments stand beside modern skyscrapers and industrial complexes.

Image Size: 14.25 x 12.25 in.
Overall Size: 17.25 x 14.75 in.
Unframed.
(B11392)

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