Definition: Wine philately

The partial collection presented in Salquenen, just under half of the complete collection, has been divided into 17 themes (52 panels representing 130 A4 plates, out of a total of approximately 200 plates) related to vines and wine: the vineyard conquers the world, vineyards of the world, work in the vineyard, vineyards and wine in ancient times, and praise of wine, among others. These subjects are illustrated through stamps, postmarks and postal stationery from around the world. Some extremely rare items are priceless. The collection has travelled the world - Paris, San Francisco, Beijing and Seoul - and has won numerous awards. Having won the maximum number of prizes and all possible distinctions, this collection is now received as a guest of honour. It is highly recognised in thematic philatelic circles.

When the collection is not on tour, it is stored in safes under the responsibility of its owners.

A long history

Eugène Favre (1910-1978) was a true son of the soil throughout his life. After acquiring a solid professional education at the Châteauneuf-Sion School of Agriculture, he devoted himself to arboriculture. A self-taught enthusiast of art and history, Eugène Favre was particularly interested in philately. From an early age, he devoted much of his leisure time to it. In 1942, thanks to his perseverance, the Sion Philatelic Society was founded. He was its first president until 1952, when the General Assembly appointed him honorary president. He was one of the promoters of "thematic philately"; his collection "La Vigne et le Vin" (Vines and Wine) won several awards.

Sold to Provins in 1979, this collection, assembled in the form of binders, was first entrusted to Mr Hauser, then to Mr Roger Muller. As the rules governing philately had undergone many changes, it became imperative to bring Eugène Favre's collection up to date with current tastes and standards. This work was carried out by Mr. Roger Muller, who, purchasing on behalf of Provins-Valais, scoured collectors' fairs and auctions and expanded the basic collection. Over the years, the "La Vigne et le Vin" collection grew and became worthy of competition. The PTT honoured it with an exhibition in Bern, which was a great success.