The Madonna and Child have played a historic significance in the world of art. The Madonna representing Mary and the child representing baby Jesus have been painted by some of the most famous artists of the 15th and 16th centuries. The United States Postal Service celebrate the Madonna and Child through stamps. The Madonna and Child United States Postage Stamp Collection features seven stunning Christmas stamps. The collection includes the 8 cent stamp, "The Small Cowper Madonna," by Raphael. A 20 cent stamp features the painting of the "Madonna and Child," by Fra Filippo Lippi is the second stamp in the set. The third stamp is a 20 cent stamp titled "Madonna and Child" by Botticelli. "Madonna and Child With Angels" by painter Hans Memling is the focus of the 5 cent stamp. Issued in Washington D.C. the fifth stamp, a 22 cent stamp is fashioned from the work of artist Pietro Perugino. The 20 cent 1983 stamp is the second one by artist Raphael and the sixth in the set. The last stamp is the 18th century masterpiece by artist Tiepolo and is 20 cents. The stamps in the collection are all genuine United States Postage Stamps in mint state. The stamps are housed in a protective 4 x 6 black portfolio and come with a Certificate of Authenticity.
