Antique Ceramic Porcelain German Lidded Beer Stein Jug Villeroy Boch

Antique German Lidded Blue Glazed Earthenware Beer Stein Jug Merkelbach Wick German Earthenware, Metal c. 1900 Dimensions: H x D: 18.5cm x 13.5cm This fine beer stein was made by Merkelbach Wick, a German stoneware factory based in Grenzhausen. Founded around 1872–1873 by Friedrich Wilhelm Merkelbach II and Georg Peter Wick, the firm became known for its fine earthenware and, from the early 1880s onward, its ivory stoneware, which blended traditional craftsmanship with emerging artistic styles. Their creations gained particular popularity in North America, with roughly half of their production exported there by the late 19th century. Merkelbach Wick’s beer steins were especially notable: many 19th and early 20th century pub steins, including those produced for major breweries, were crafted in salt-glazed or ivory stoneware and often bore the distinctive ‘M W Gr.’ impressed seal - such as the one on this example - making them highly prized by collectors today. Crafted from earthenware, this stein features moulded high-relief decoration encircling the entire body. Various geometric borders frame a central band filled with naturalistic and mythological motifs. Oval cartouches contain classical busts, while the spaces between them depict centaurs, symbolising the duality of human nature and the tension between intellect and instinct. The deep blue glaze accentuates the raised decoration while allowing parts of the ivory-coloured earthenware to remain visible for contrast. The prominent earthenware handle is decorated in the same style as the body, and the vessel is topped with a hinged metal lid. Its generously sized thumb lever allows the drinker to comfortably raise the lid, and the top is inset with a beautifully modelled earthenware panel. On the base remains the original Merkelbach Wick label, highlighting the firm's international reach with branches in Philadelphia, Vienna, and Munich. The earthenware is also impressed with their ‘M W Gr.’ mark, used between c. 1879 and 1921. With its detailed design and superb craftsmanship from a renowned manufacturer, this antique stein...

Antique Traditional German Lidded Glass Jug Beer Stein Pewter Porcelain German Glass, Pewter, Porcelain Late 19th Century Dimensions: H x D: 18cm x 14cm Crafted in the late 19th century, this German beer stein exemplifies the enduring tradition of the classic drinking vessel. Beer steins originated in 14th century Germany, when new sanitation laws required beverage containers to have lids to prevent contamination. This led to the creation of the lidded stoneware mug with a thumb lever for ease of use, eventually known as the beer stein. From the 16th to the 18th centuries, German artisans refined the craft, producing beautifully decorated examples made from stoneware, pewter, glass and porcelain. By the 19th century, beer steins had become both practical drinking vessels and artistic expressions of German culture, often featuring intricate reliefs and regional or historical themes. Their popularity spread throughout Europe, reflecting not only the rich brewing traditions but also the artistry and craftsmanship of the era. The present example features a glass body adorned with circular cut facets throughout. Its bulbous handle provides a comfortable grip and is topped with a pewter lid. The lid’s porcelain plaque displays a transfer-printed scene depicting a man standing on the edge of a cliff with a rifle, gazing towards his hunted prey. Scenes such as this were popular at the time, emphasizing German pride and the fine craftsmanship for which these steins became renowned. The thumb lever, cast in the form of a mask surrounded by scrolling motifs, is generously sized to make lifting the lid effortless. With its intricate porcelain plaque and finely faceted glass body, this antique stein...

Beautiful large ceramic jug in a moorish style, France, circa 1880. Stamped at the bottom "Mauresque Longchamp".

Art Deco German Silver Lustre Porcelain Sugar Bowl Jug WMF Königszelt Porzellan German Porcelain c. 1920s/ 1930s Dimensions: H x W x D: Sugar bowl : 9cm x 12.5cm x 8cm Jug : 7c...

This beautiful beer stein has been made in Germany circa 1900s by the well known manufacturer Villeroy & Boch. Absolutely gorgeous piece and still in great condition. Lid works properly. A nice addition to any collection. The Villeroy & Boch ceramic company was founded in 1836 in Mettlach, Germany and is internationally known for their production of table wares. Marked at the Base with Logo and Number. It is a 1 Liter...

Vintage 1980s German Ceramic Beer Stein - Traditional Bavarian Design Step into the heart of German tradition with this vintage ceramic beer stein ...

A beautiful beer stein made in the city of Regensburg in Germany. This beer stein was made in Germany, circa 1880's or earlier. Absolutely beautiful piece, still in great condition, ...

A beautiful beer stein made in the city of Nuremberg in Germany. This beer stein was made in Germany, its dated 1891 so production was earlier. Absolutely beautiful piece, still in g...