Congratulations – 2026 / Condolences – 2026

Congratulations – 2026 / Condolences – 2026
When character transforms into a language of feeling and a silent human message
11–02–2026
Österreichische Post AG

In this double issue, the Austrian Post offers a philatelic reading with a direct human dimension.
It does not immortalize a historical event or a public figure, but rather accompanies people in moments of joy.
And grief as well. Two characteristics, with complementary social functions, fulfilling a need
The constant need for appropriate communication on special occasions, whether it is a celebration of life or
Sharing in a moment of farewell.
The greeting card comes in a cheerful visual language, based on universal celebratory elements: template
Candy, gifts, balloons, and colorful decorations. Its fun design makes it suitable for various occasions.
Happy occasions, from birthdays and weddings to graduations and successes. It's a tradition.
It expresses joy without words, and lends the message a warm, personal touch, even in the case of
Absence from the event.
In contrast, the condolence message adopts a visually very calm and minimalist style. Calla lily.
The white one, with its grace and delicate curve, is present as a symbol of love, purity, and eternity.
A flower commonly used in wedding bouquets as well as in funeral arrangements. The phrase "In stiller"
Trauer (in silent grief) gives the character a reflective dimension, making it suitable for death notices.
Both official and personal messages of condolence.
Design analysis
The release is based on a clear emotional duality: a chromatic and kinetic crowding in the congratulatory style versus
Visual emptiness and color discipline characterize the condolence message. This deliberate contrast reflects the design philosophy.
Functionally, in modern stamps, the form serves the psychological and social purpose of the stamp, not
Simply decorative. Choosing simple, universally understood symbols enhances usability.
Transcultural.
Technological details
• Value: €1.00 per stamp
• Size: 33.30 x 40.00 mm
• Perforation: 12 x 12
• Printing method: Offset
• Printing entity: bpost Stamps Printing
• Graphic Design: Lisa Feltsi
• Day before release: 06–02–2026
• Place of sealing of the first day: Vienna 1060
• Printed quantity:
• Greetings: 300,000 stamps (sheets of 50)
• Condolences: 250,000 stamps (sheets of 50)
• Order numbers:
• Congratulations: 226050
Condolences: 226060
Topics
Human communication, social events, functional design, visual symbolism

 Note for stamp collectors
This issue is a prime example of functional stamps with a social dimension, and deserves recognition.
Acquiring them as a complete pair reflects the philosophy of contemporary design and the role of character in everyday life.
Especially with the availability of first-day stamps specific to each stamp.

For more similar topics, you can browse the Al-Muqti Al-Arabi website through the Link the next: