Stoneware Masskrug/Maßkrug

Aus die Sammlung von Jorge O. Soriano

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A simple, but solid Stoneware Masskrug/Maßkrug that I’m sure was often used by its original owner, whose initials, I assume, are nicely engraved on the heavy pewter lid.


Description:

1. Hinge: Open 3-Ring Hinge:

• The open 3-ring hinge became popular ca. 1875–1895, especially in Bavaria and the westerwald.
• This is an earlier style than the open 5-ring hinge (which became common from ~1895 onward).
• The presence of a 3-ring hinge generally indicates a pre-1900 stein, most commonly circa 1880–1895.

2. Thumblift: Hollow “Turnip-Like” Form:

• Hollow thumblifts (especially those that are shaped or figural but not spherical) were frequently used on tavern or utilitarian steins late 19th century.
• The fact that it’s not a solid ball (common in WWI–WWII military steins) and instead organic/vegetable-shaped (e.g., resembling a turnip or acorn) strengthens a 1880s–1890s range.
• This was a period when pewterers experimented with light, decorative shapes that weren’t overly ornate.

3. Capacity Mark (1L) + Calibration on the Side:

• The calibration mark on the side was legally required starting after 1884, following the 1881 German volume standardization law.
• Before that, steins might be marked more loosely. A 1L side mark suggests this was made post-1884, possibly as late as 1895–1900.

4. This stein has a Smooth Glaze (Interior/Exterior):

Unlike “westerwald” mugs that typically showed:

• Coarse turning marks inside the base or wall.
• Cobalt blue salt-glazing
• Slight roughness in glaze texture, especially near seams or under the handle
• Distinctive molded relief (floral or geometric)

This stein’s creamy white glaze, industrial smoothness, no turn marks, minimal or no decoration—is more aligned with urban brewery-serving ware from Bavaria, where uniformity and hygiene were prized.

5. Number “603” on Base:

• This is likely a mold or catalog form number, not a date.
• Mold number 603 is consistent with late 19th-century mass-produced tavern steins. This was definitely a utilitarian, every day drinking vessel.


Conclusion – Probable Date Range:

Given:
• Open 3-ring hinge (ca. 1875–1895)
• Hollow, vegetable-like thumblift (common in 1880s–1890s)
• Side calibration mark (post-1884)
• Absence of decoration + tavern durability features

The most accurate date estimate is:

Circa 1885–1895, with a narrower probable range of 1887–1894


It’s a learning and mistakes process, so I always welcome and appreciate feedback.

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