When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Authentic antique 1908 Villeroy & Boch Mettlach 0.5-liter etched Art Nouveau stoneware beer stein, mold #3173 ("Strolling Couple"), designed by renowned Munich artist Ludwig Hohlwein.
Design & Details:- Front medallion features a Biedermeier couple strolling inside a green garland border, signed at the lower right with Ludwig Hohlwein's "LH" monogram.- Matching inlaid ceramic lid insert with a stein, pipe and tobacco pouch still-life motif, also signed with the LH monogram, set in a darkened pewter rim with ball thumb lift (stamped on the handle band).- Incised "1/2 L" capacity mark near the upper rim beside the handle.- Side inscriptions read: "Tu gemach und lach / So geniess't dein Sach" ("Take it easy and laugh, and enjoy what is yours").- Base is clearly impressed with the Mettlach Abbey/Castle mark, VB, GES. GESCH., REG. U.S. PAT. OFF., mold number 3173, II, 37, and date mark 08 (1908).
Condition:Very nice antique condition overall with crisp colors, a tight hinge that sits flat, and a clean white interior and drinking rim. Please note:- A small white nick/wear spot in the dark finish on the front-right edge of the pewter lid rim (shown in close-up photo).- Noticeable age wear and brownish glaze toning/discoloration along the outer curve of the handle from handling over the years (shown in close-up photo), with no cracks or repairs to the handle.- A shallow indent on the bottom foot ring (likely from manufacture).
Please review all photos carefully as they are part of the description. Carefully double-boxed and shipped USPS Priority Mail, or free local pickup in the St. Louis area.
