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German Antique Late 19th Century Lidded Glass Jug Beer Stein Porcelain Pewter
$786.45
£585.79
€660
CA$1,083.01
A$1,178.83
CHF 624.62
MX$14,177.18
NOK 7,941.86
SEK 7,277.84
DKK 5,028.76
About the Item
German Antique Late 19th Century Lidded Glass Jug Beer Stein Porcelain Pewter
German
Glass, Pewter, Porcelain
Late 19th Century
Dimensions: H x D x W: 17cm x 14.5cm
Crafted in the late 19th century, this German beer stein embodies the long-standing tradition of the classic drinking vessel. The history of the beer stein dates to 14th-century Germany, when new public health regulations required drinking containers to be fitted with lids to reduce contamination. This innovation led to the development of the lidded stoneware mug, equipped with a convenient thumb lever, that would eventually become known as the beer stein.
From the 1500s through the 1700s, German craftsmen elevated the form, producing richly decorated examples in stoneware, pewter, glass, and porcelain. By the 19th century, steins had evolved into both functional drinking tools and expressive works of art, often adorned with intricate reliefs and regional or historical motifs. Their growing popularity across Europe reflected not only the continent’s deep brewing heritage but also the exceptional artistry of German makers.
The present stein features a glass body with a rounded handle designed for a comfortable hold, topped by a pewter lid. Set into the lid is a porcelain plaque printed with a domestic genre scene: a young boy kneels before a woman, accompanied by a German inscription reading, ‘Paul Mama, die Hedwig hat... genascht der Herr Assessor sagte eben hinter der Thur er wolle den Honig von ihren Lippen küssen’.Scenes of everyday life, such as this, were highly fashionable at the time, celebrating German identity and the meticulous craftsmanship that made these vessels so admired. The inclusion of written dialogue adds an especially appealing touch.
The pewter thumb lever is generously sized, making it easy to raise the lid while drinking.
With its detailed porcelain medallion and elegant glass body, this 19th century stein stands as a superb example of German decorative artistry and an excellent addition to any collection of historic drinkware.
- Dimensions:Height: 6.7 in (17 cm)Diameter: 5.71 in (14.5 cm)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:Late 19th Century
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use. Beautiful and authentic, cleaned condition with slight signs of wear typical for its age.
- Seller Location:Greven, DE
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU5419247668982
About the Seller
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View AllAntique Traditional German Lidded Glass Jug Beer Stein Pewter Porcelain
Located in Greven, DE
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.
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Wick
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Located in Greven, DE
Antique German Lidded Blue Glazed Earthenware Beer Stein Jug Merkelbach
Wick
German
Earthenware, Metal
c. 1900
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