Heavy German Stoneware 0.5 Liter Stein Pewter Lid By Reinhold Merkelbach 2026
Description: A great looking vintage substantial glazed stoneware stein having a pewter lid with a curved flat thumb piece. The stein which has the mark of the maker Reinhold Merkelbach, consisting of the letters R and M enclosed within the letter G followed by the number 2026 and the letter E all stamped on the bottom. The stein has a beautiful brown lightly textured glaze on the outside and has raised letters along the top of the exterior below the lid. As we understand it this text represents the first part of the Latin phrase meaning Let us rejoice while we are young. This stein is rather heavy weighing about two and a half pounds. Its construction is substantial and the lid is solid and heavy too. The inside is also glazed in an off-white grayish color. The bottom is colored in a gray color and is stamped with the maker's mark. A beautiful stein to add to your collection. Please carefully review the photos presented as they are part and parcel of our description.
Additional information: According to the Reinhold Merkelback Stein Catalog this stein has catalog number 20026 and is described as follows:
- Stoneware, relief, 0.5L, pewter lid.
- Design attributed to Richard Riemerschmid.
- The text forming the principal decoration on this stein is the first part of the Latin phrase “Gaudeamus igitur juvenes dum sumus” (Let us rejoice while we are young), taken from a song entitled “De Brevitate Vita” (The Brevity of Life) that has been popular among German students since the 13th century.
- Price Range: $175-$250
Date: The stein is undated and it is not clear when it was made or if it is still in production.
Origin: Purchased at an estate auction in Southeastern Pennsylvania.
Size: Measures ~4 3/4" diameter at the base, ~4 1/4" diameter on top, ~6" at its widest including the handle, is ~4 3/4" high to the top of the lid, and is ~5 5/8" high to the top of the thumb piece. The piece weighs about 2.5 pounds. Maker: Reinhold Merkelbach Pottery. Marks: The stein has the mark of the maker Reinhold Merkelbach, consisting of the letters R and M enclosed within the letter G followed by the number 2026 and the letter E all stamped on the bottom. See photos for additional information.
Distinguishing Characteristics - Most Interesting About The Piece: This is a nice piece of breweriana pottery with very nice decoration and in excellent condition. It would make a nice addition to your collection of art pottery, lidded steins or beer related items.
Condition: The piece is in very good condition and we believe it was probably never used and remains clean and intact. It has no cracks, chips, hairlines, repairs, or crazing to the glaze. The lid is intact and the hinge is solidly in place. It is slightly soiled and could probably benefit from a good cleaning. This stein will display very nicely in your collection. Please see photos for additional condition information.
