Beginning 2012 one Russian specialized philately press interviewed
among readers on subject "Worst postage issue of Russia past year". As
it is absurd look but the majority of respondents the worst stamps 2011 called
a series " Decorative Art, Lace". The choice appeared so strange, as
far as also unfair.
On the 4 triangular values are presented the images of the
traditional Russian laces executed in an inimitable manner of masters of Vologda,
Vyatka, Yelets and Beletsk. The stamps published in blocks of four are printed
in such manner that the mini sheet creates a complete image of a peculiar
national lace.
The problem for the Russian designers, engineers and
technologists appeared much more difficult than it was represented to them
initially. To transfer the thinnest details of laces, image relief, variety of
shades, uniqueness of drawing to the most modern typographical equipment
established on GoZnak it appeared not under force.
In the manufacture of stamps was applied printing technology
of offset and metallography with use of the silver powder which drawing created
the thinnest volume pattern. However, the printing of stamps wasn't successful,
as silvery paint was showered and from it drawing turned out poor quality.
Production was tightened, the part of edition should be written off in defect.
The stamps issue, which has been initially planned by Russian post for November
30, it was necessary to postpone for 2 weeks.
The printers were compelled reconciled to the helplessness. To
use of similar technology of the printing they appeared aren't ready. Therefore,
to avoid problems with the customer, which is the Russian post, and without
wishing to break a new termination date of work, the GoZnak experts gave out
production which part appeared sub-standard, The evident typographical defects
were destroyed, however, some part of poor-quality production was transferred
to the customer.
From time to time philatelists find essential distinctions
in patterns of laces, in details of drawings, and also printing errors which
meet on stamps of this issue. Similar cases could be carried to expenses of
high technologies if it didn't concern objects of a collecting where each
"trifle" has essential value. However, happy owners of versions have
no claims to printers.
