2002 Stamps

Martin Krpan v kovačnici

Date of issue: 3/21/2002

Martin Krpan

Martin Krpan z Vrha ("Martin Krpan from Vrh") is the first important work of Slovene narrative prose. The writer Fran Levstik (1831 – 1887) wrote the story in spring 1858 and published it in July later that year in the "Slovenski glasnik" (Slovene Herald). By writing the story Levstik wanted to set an example how simple folk tales should be narrated. Therefore he used the language appropriate to such tales, including many "juicy" native words, proverbs and similes.
Besides being a salt smuggler Martin Krpan was known as the strongest man in the whole of Hapsburg empire. One day he was summoned to Vienna by the Emperor himself to fight a man called Brdavs, who was known as the cruellest man alive. Brdavs decapitated all those he fought with, including Emperor's own son. Nevertheless, Krpan won the battle against Brdavs and the grateful Emperor gave him a permanent license to transport salt.
Even though historical circumstances of that time (as for example the revolutionary year of 1848) are reflected in the tale, "Martin Krpan" is nevertheless a universal work of art, which has not only risen above its time but also its author and is very popular among Slovenes. Every new generation discovers something new in the story of "Martin Krpan".
"Martin Krpan" has often been staged, and more than 80 years ago artists started to interpret its scenes and characters, mostly in the form of children's picture books.
The artist Tone Kralj (1901 – 1972) first published his colour illustrations of Martin Krpan, which are depicted on the new stamps, in 1954. His picture book, which has already been reprinted thirteen times, brings the most recognisable image of Martin Krpan.

Andrej Ilc

Face value:

31,00 SIT

Pictures

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