Saxon Reserve Infantry Regimental Stein – 3. Kompagnie, Königl. Sächs. 6. Infanterie-Regiment Nr. 105, Straßburg, 1904–1906

This outstanding and beautifully preserved regimental stein commemorates the two-year active-duty service of Reservist Bergner, who served from 1904 to 1906 in the 3rd Company of the Royal Saxon 6th Infantry Regiment Nr. 105, garrisoned in Straßburg (Strasbourg) — then a key city in Reichsland Elsaß-Lothringen, which had been annexed by Germany following the Franco-Prussian War of 1870–71.

Regimental and Unit Significance:

The 6. Kgl. Sächs. Infanterie-Regiment Nr. 105 was one of the core infantry regiments of XII. (1st Royal Saxon) Armeekorps. Its station in Straßburg, a culturally significant and heavily fortified city on the border with France, placed it at the geopolitical forefront of Imperial Germany’s western defenses. Saxon regiments were considered among the most traditional and disciplined in the Imperial German Army, and steins from these units are prized for their artistry and regional character.

Design and Scenes:

This richly colored stein features hand-painted scenes of field maneuvers and garrison life. The primary panel shows soldiers of the 105th engaged in a dramatic skirmish or training exercise, set against a landscape of rocky terrain and open countryside. The reverse panel presents a peaceful camp scene with soldiers in formation, sentries, and tent life, with the recognizable Straßburg Cathedral towering in the background — a nod to the soldier’s garrison town.

Inscriptions and Roster:

Across the top rim, we read: "Wir standen am Vogesensrand, treu fürs Vaterland."
(“We stood at the edge of the Vosges Mountains, faithful to the Fatherland.”)

Beneath the battlefield and camp illustrations are two patriotic stanzas reflecting on the soldier’s duty and loyalty.

Along the left side of the handle, a full company roster is listed — over 30 names of fellow soldiers and ranks including “Trommler” (drummer), “Gefreiter” (corporal), and “Pionier” (combat engineer). The inclusion of such a complete roster greatly enhances the stein’s historical value and uniqueness.

The front bottom banner confirms the soldier’s unit: "3. Comp. Kgl. Sächs. 6. Inf. Regt. Nr. 105. Straßburg 1904–06."

Pewter Lid & Thumblift:

The pewter lid features a classic figural finial: a seated infantryman in full uniform, hoisting a drink in one hand while holding a rifle in the other — a cheerful post-service motif symbolizing camaraderie and pride. The thumb lift features a Saxon lion’s head, and the lid base is adorned with a swirling relief pattern of vines and leaves.

Base Detail – Unique Touch:

The bottom of the stein features a raised porcelain bas-relief scene showing a soldier shaking hands with a woman — possibly symbolizing farewell, reunion, or patriotic support from the home front. These under-base sculpted scenes were typical of high-quality steins made for reservists and were designed to provide a personal and emotional resonance to their service memento.

Condition:

• Excellent overall with no chips, cracks, or restorations
• Color is bright and well-preserved
• Pewter lid has minor age patina
• Base relief crisp and undamaged
• Measures approx. 11.5 inches tall to the top of the finial

Collector’s Notes:
This stein is a premier example of Saxon regimental artistry — historically rich, visually striking, and incredibly well-preserved. The combination of vivid battlefield imagery, complete roster, figural finial, and bas-relief base make this an outstanding piece for collectors focused on Saxony, garrison life in the Reichsland, or pre-WWI German infantry traditions.