Epaulettes (stamp)

Epaulettes, in the context of philately (stamp collecting), refers to a specific design element commonly found on certain postage stamps, primarily those issued by France and its colonies. The epaulette design features stylized representations of military epaulettes, the decorative shoulder pieces worn on formal military uniforms.

These stylized epaulettes often appear in the upper corners of the stamp, flanking the central image or portrait. They are typically rendered in a symmetrical fashion, adding a decorative and official aesthetic to the stamp's design.

The use of epaulettes as a design element on stamps was popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries, reflecting a period when military imagery and symbols of national authority were frequently employed on official documents and currency. The epaulettes served as a visual cue to the stamp's origin and official status.

Different designs and variations of epaulettes can be found on different stamp issues, allowing collectors to identify specific printings or series. Variations in the shape, size, or ornamentation of the epaulettes can be important distinguishing factors for cataloging and identifying different stamp varieties.