The following stamps are issued with a view to encourage the conservation of United Arab Emirates heritage and illustrate the proficiency of its women in the field of handicraft. The commemorative set of stamps in four denominations to be issued by the General Postal Authority, U.A.E., has been produced with the c0- operation of the Women's Association at Ras AI Khaimah.
50Fils Dh.1
The stamps feature the work of Tallah. This is the braiding of silver or gold threads with cotton threads in a plaited band on a Kajujah. These bands are woven in different widths and with varying patterns are combined to make a Badlah. Traditionally this handicraft was used to decorate the cuffs of the Sirwal (female trousers) and the neckline of the women's kandurah and thob (dress and over- garment). It also was used to decorate Kohl jars.
250Fils
The stamp depicts the handicraft of weaving using palm leaves. Palm weaving was widely practice by the women of the U.A.E. because of its many practical applications around the home. The leaves were first soaked in water to soften in order to make them more pliable to work. Dye was added to some of the fronds so that, when woven, the intricate patterns were produced in the finished item. The weaving is worked into an AI Yerayel (braid) of varying widths, according to their application, then sewn together using this strips of the palm leaf.
350 Fils
This stamp reflects some of the items made from palm leaves:-
"AI Metchabba" (cover) is a conical shaped cover, which is used to protect food.
"AI Guffa" (Basket) is used to store sewing utensils, clothes or for carrying dates. This kind of basket can be in various colours.
"AI Serrod" (mat) is a round or oval mat used for putting food on. The colour can be natural or multicoloured.
"AI Mekesha or AI Mekhamma" (hand brush) this is used to clean the tent and is made from palm leaves.
."AI Mashab" this is used to fan the flames of the fire during the making of tea or coffee or when cooking. It is usually circular.