Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
A classic 1-liter 'Keferloher' beer stein featuring the iconic crowned 'HB' logo of the Staatliches Hofbräuhaus in München. This heavy stoneware vessel is finished with a traditional salt glaze, giving it a distinctive 'orange peel' texture and incredible thermal properties.
Story
Founded in 1589 by the Duke of Bavaria, this logo represents the world's most famous tavern. These steins were the workhorses of Munich beer halls, designed to keep lager ice-cold even in a crowded, rowdy festival tent.
Maker / Origin
While the logo belongs to the brewery, the vessel itself was crafted by specialized German stoneware potteries in the Westerwald region. These makers perfected the 'salt-glaze' technique, where common salt is thrown into the kiln at peak temperature to create a glass-like, acid-resistant finish.
Condition & Value
The stoneware appears robust with no visible cracks or major chips. There is some minor shelf wear and darkening on the unglazed foot ring, which is consistent with age and use in a tavern setting. Excellent preservation of the blue cobalt logo. Value is driven by the iconic branding and the traditional salt-glaze finish.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.