German Beer SteinGerman beer steins are much more than unique and charming gift ideas. These beautiful works of art make wonderful decorations and are equally useful for those who enjoy a frothy, cold glass of ale. International stein collectorsGerman beer steins, are remarkable creations so it is no wonder that there are thousands of individuals who call themselves stein collectors. Such collections have been dated back to as long ago as the 1200’s, but the late 20th century has seen a tremendous surge in the popularity of stein collecting.This increase in interest is greatly attributed to the introduction of the Stein Collectors International organization, founded in 1965 to bring together dedicated beer stein collectors from around the world. Today, Stein Collectors International has more than 1600 members and that number is growing each day. Different materials and sizeA typical German beer stein is designed with a sturdy handle and usually features a unique hinged lid to protect drinks. While most beer steins follow this traditional design, steins are available in a wide variety of materials. These steins may be created from pewter, silver, porcelain, or even wood. Some beer steins are made of glass or creamware. Ceramic and crystal beer steins are also popular. There are even earthenware creations available.Decorated or Handpainted TypesIt is not uncommon to find hand painted and elaborately decorated German beer steins. Hand painted ones are often antiques or reproductions, but there are also a selection of new hand painted steins and many limited edition varieties. Decorated steins may be traditional, occupational, or regimental. Three-dimensional, relief style steins and character beer steins are also common.Most German beer steins offer a volume capacity of 5 ½ litres, or 16.9 ounces, but there are steins as small as an ounce (.3 L) and as large as 32 litres (8.4 gallons).
The most beautiful: Villeroy and Boch StonewareGerman beer steins are among the most beautiful steins in the world. Those crafted by Villeroy and Boch are perhaps the finest of all. Also referred to as Mettlach steins, Villeroy and Boch beer steins were carefully fashioned of stoneware in the village of Mettlach, or Saar Valley, Germany.Mettlach steins were remarkable creations and won a number of awards at 19th century craft exhibits. Each of these unique steins are precisely decorated and feature heavy lids of either ceramic or pewter. Today, Villeroy and Boch beer steins are some of the most highly sought after pieces by stein collectors and range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the stein’s design, condition, and how rare the type is.
Porcelain German Beer Stein
Like Mettlach steins, Regimental beer steins are quite popular among collectors and carry the same costly and varying price tags depending on their uniqueness. Regimental beer steins were typically made of porcelain and depict duty scenes and images of the German soldiers serving reserve time, between 1870 and 1914. |
