German Imperial Era Beer Stein with Naval Flag Motif

This German Imperial Era beer stein is a fine example of craftsmanship from the late 19th to early 20th century. It features a beautifully hand-painted naval flag motif, celebrating Germany’s Imperial Navy, with vibrant colors and intricate detail. The stein combines historical significance with artistic appeal, making it a treasured item for collectors of militaria and antique beer steins.

Features:

• Material: Glazed stoneware body with a pewter lid.
• Motif: The front displays the Imperial German naval flag, with a detailed depiction of the Iron Cross and the Prussian Eagle set against red, white, and black stripes.
• Lid: The pewter lid features a finely sculpted thumb lever in the form of a floral design, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
• Markings: Stamped with the number "121" near the handle and a faintly visible maker’s mark on the underside.
• Size: Approximately 1-liter capacity, suitable for authentic beer-drinking experiences or as a display piece.

Historical Context:

This stein reflects the pride and nationalism associated with Germany’s naval expansion during the Imperial Era. The flag design symbolizes Germany’s maritime strength and the role of the navy in World War I. Items like this were often commissioned as commemorative pieces, gifted to sailors or as souvenirs for naval veterans.

Condition:

• Exterior: Excellent condition with no chips or cracks; the hand-painted design remains vivid and intact.
• Lid: The pewter lid exhibits minor patina consistent with age but is free of major dents or deformities.
• Interior: Clean and free from staining, suggesting it was well-maintained or primarily used for display purposes.

Provenance:

The piece originates from a private collection of German Imperial artifacts, with authenticity verified through the maker’s mark and stylistic features indicative of late 19th to early 20th-century German stein production.

Collector Appeal:

This stein appeals to collectors of:

• German Imperial militaria
• Naval artifacts
• Historical beer steins and drinkware

It also serves as an excellent display item for museum exhibits or themed home bars focusing on German history or military memorabilia.

Display Suggestions:

• Place it on a wooden shelf or bar area alongside other Imperial German artifacts to create a cohesive historical narrative.
• Pair it with a display of World War I naval photographs or documents for a themed presentation.
• Use it as a centerpiece in a collection of antique steins to highlight its unique naval motif.