18th century occupational jug for masonry

From the collection of Paul Van Eck

"Hannes Montag, Caspar Salter, Der Zeit Alt Geseln"

Occupational sign or Freemasonry..?

"Juergen Hartkopp, Melcher Lincke, Der Zeit Elter Meister."

"Vivat ein Ehrpar Handwerck derer Maurer Anno 1747"

Crowned eagle and the number '31' pewter marking

An impressive pewter tankard, made in Germany and dated 1747.

This looks to be a so-called occcupational stein, in honor of the profession of masons (German: Maurer). The texts on the sides read:
"Hannes Montag
Caspar Saltzer
Der Zeit
Alt Geseln."

"Juergen Hartkopp
Melcher Lincke
Der Zeit
Elter Meister."

The text on the lid reads:
"Vivat ein Ehrpar Handwerck derer Maurer Anno 1747" ('Long live the honorable handicraft of the masons, Anno 1747')

The front panel shows 2 lions holding a crowned panel. The panel features a drawing of a masonry tools: a hammer, a square, a compass, and a trowel.

There are 3 marks on the inside of the lid and also on the base of the jug. One mark is on the back of the handle. I have not yet been able to identify the marks. I suggest they are German pewter marks. One of the mark shows a crowned eagle, together with the number 31.

The pewter jug is 13 inches tall, including the lid and thumblift (9,25 inch without the lid). The ravages of time have been fairly gentle on its condition, but it still shows signs of wear and a few dents.

View the collection of Paul Van Eck

To the homepage