In 1980 Syria issued a series of five stamps with Arabian Nights theme illustrations. These include a depiction of Shanrayar and Shahrazad, the ubiquitous Sindbad, Ali Baba and Aladdin and, for the first time, Hassan. There are a number of Hassan’s in the Arabian Nights, so I’m not sure to which one this is being referenced, perhaps, “The Adventures of Hasan of Bassora.”
A troubled country, modern Syria was established after World War One. It came about as a result of the partitioning of the Ottoman Empire. In 1946 it gained full independence. Since then a number of military coups have occurred resulting in much bloodshed and unrest.
Shanrayar and Shahrazad
Note that this depiction of Shanrayar and Shahrazad is rather proper. They are fully clothed and appear to be sitting down for dinner, rather than occupying a marriage bed. We can safely assume that the two did eat, but for the purposes of story telling, it is pretty much assumed that they were in bed when the stories were being told. Relating a story over dinner does not have the same element of peril that otherwise should be present. Dunyazad is no where in evidence.
Sindbad
An unusual portrayal of Sindbad. I have never seen another illustration of him playing a flute, or of any musical instrument. Neither can I remember this particular skill being mentioned in any of the stories.
Ali Baba
Aladdin
Hassan
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