Preliminary identification

German Salt-Glazed Relief Beer Stein, c. 1890-1910

Photo reference

4 uploaded photos

Overview

A classic 0.5-liter cobalt blue and cream stoneware stein featuring high-relief scenes of Alpine romance and hunting culture.

Story

During the late 1800s, Germany experienced a 'Golden Age' of stoneware where beer vessels became canvases for national pride and folk storytelling.

Maker / Origin

The impressed marks on the base are consistent with the prolific workshops of the Westerwald region, likely Marzi & Remy or Gerz, who were masters of the salt-glazing technique.

Condition & Value

The stoneware appears to be in excellent condition with no visible 'spider' cracks or significant chips to the relief. The pewter lid has a lovely aged patina and the hinge appears tight and functional. The slight wear on the bottom rim is consistent with age and use.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

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.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD