Oskar Minkowski - Founder of experimental diabetology

 

Date of Issue : 20 October 2012

On October 20, Lithuania Post  released a new stamp dedicated to the founder of experimental diabetology Oskar Minkowski. The experiments conducted by this world famous physician gave basis for discovery and synthesis of insulin.

Since 1992, patients suffering from diabetes have been given insulin therapy that has saved millions of lives. In 2012, the insulin therapy will celebrate its 90th anniversary.

Myths and Legends on Irish stamps

Date of Issue : 13 September 2012

 

Some of Ireland's favourite tales of myth and legend get new life as An Post launches a heroic four stamp set. The  stamps  feature The Children of Lir, Deirdre of the Sorrows, Fionn and the Salmon of Knowledge and the Naming of Cuchulainn.

All four tales, while belonging to Ireland's rich story telling tradition, are widely known internationally. Sales of the new stamps will be brisk given the popularity of the subject matter. An Post has also produced a beautiful first day cover which includes a special 'Myths and Legends' graphic.

 

The Children of Lir tells the story of the four children of King Lir, who were turned into white swans when Aoife, Lirs second wife put a spell on them. When the spell was broken after 900 years, the swans turned back into four very old and frail human beings, who died shortly afterwards.

In Deirdre of the Sorrows, the King, Conor Mac Nessa vowed to marry Deirdre. However, Deirdre was in love with Naoise. Fearing the King, Naoise and Deirdre fled to Scotland. They were tricked into returning to Ireland, where the King had Naoise killed.

 

  Fionn Mac Cumhaill, was a renowned leader and warrior. While still a boy, he gained his wisdom by eating the Salmon of Knowledge. With this knowledge and wisdom he went on to become leader of the mighty Fianna.

Setanta, gained his better-known name Cú Chulainn as a child after he killed Culann's fierce guard-dog in self-defence. He offered to take its place until a replacement could be reared. He thus became known as Cú Chulainn.