SMALL BUSINESSES IN CISKEI
Ciskei, Kwadimbaza · 1985-08-08
Official first day cover (FDC) · South African philately
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front
This cover is postmarked on 8 August 1985 in Kwadimbaza. The four stamps, illustrated by Barry Jackson, depict cabinet-making, dressmaking, welding and basketry, four small trades supported by the Ciskeian Small Business Corporation. At the time this set was issued, informal small businesses of this kind had become the largest single source of employment in Ciskei, with the Corporation providing entrepreneurs with advice, loans and workshop premises to help these traditional and modern trades grow.
Description of the Cachet
The cachet shows an oval illustration of the Ciskeian Small Business Corporation Limited building, a long, low white structure with a grey roof set against rolling hills in the background. Small figures stand near the entrance, giving a sense of scale to the building. Above the illustration the words "Ciskeian Small Businesses" appear in bold black type, setting the theme for the four stamps shown, each depicting a different small trade practised in the region.
Information Card
SMALL BUSINESSES IN CISKEI The traditional artistic skills and dexterity of the Xhosa, combined with modern equipment and expertise, provide a significant economic force in Ciskei. Many people avail themselves of the opportunity to use their individual skills in their own small industries, and this "informal section" is today the biggest single employer in Ciskei. The Ciskeian Small Business Corporation Ltd provides private entrepreneurs with free advice and assists them in securing loans and obtaining suitable premises for their enterprises. 12c stamp — CABINET-MAKING Small carpentry and joinery businesses are found in most areas of Ciskei, some in backyards and others in workshop complexes. These manufacturers produce a variety of items ranging from standard household furniture such as lounge, dining-room and bedroom suites to kitchen cupboards, office desks, doors, and door and window frames. Products are also made to customers' specifications and the work is of high quality. 25c stamp — DRESSMAKING The Xhosa women's natural flair for colour and design is utilized in the ever-growing sewing industry. Sewing groups operate throughout the country as a vital home industry. An increasing number of sewing workshops are being provided by the Ciskeian Small Business Corporation. This industry creates numerous job opportunities for women. Products range from colourful traditional wear to dresses for the export market, skirts, blouses, school uniforms, table-cloths and table-napkins. 30c stamp — WELDING Ciskeian welders operate in the light industrial areas and at their homes. In the rural areas portable welding units are sometimes used. Their main products are various types of barbecues, wheelbarrows, burglar-proofing, wrought-iron gates, potplant stands, steel windows, guttering and water tanks. Standard sizes are generally available, but individual items are made to specification. 50c stamp — BASKETRY Plaiting with grass and rushes is an age-old craft of Xhosa women. Today basketry is a flourishing trade in certain areas of Ciskei. Popular products include clothes-baskets, sewing baskets, conventional basket ware, baby bassinets, grass mats and toys. Standard sized baskets are available to satisfy the needs of the local and export markets, and a general range of non-standard sizes are made to order. Text, with thanks: Ciskeian Small Business Corporation Limited.
Theme: Science & Technology
Condition: FineGood condition. Minor wear or small imperfections, but overall well-presented.
Addressed: No
Signed: No
Stamp denomination: R1.17 (ZAR)
Estimated value: ~US$0.1
This is a high-level, subjective estimate only, not a professional appraisal.
This first day cover (FDC) is part of Southern Covers, a private collection of 248 first day covers documenting the postal history and philately of South Africa and the homeland states. New to first day cover collecting? Read the guide to learn about cachets, postmarks, and stamp collecting terms, or browse the whole collection of Southern African FDCs.
