The beer stein, which dates back to its Germanic roots in the 14th century, was originally produced with a permanently attached flip-top lid that was designed in response to a great deal of fear and public outcry over food and beverage-related hygiene issues brought on. by the plague. plague (the black plague). Initially created to combat serious health problems, the lid would eliminate the presence of fleas, flies and other pesky insects from entering your drink, and the historical significance of the beer mug made it a status symbol among the general population.
At first, German beer mugs were made mainly of stone; the word “stein” is an abbreviation for Steinzeugkrug, which can be translated as stoneware jug. However, the jug assembly line gradually incorporated the use of porcelain, wood, and pewter, as well as glass and silver for wealthy members of society. Most contemporary German beer mugs are made and painted by hand, and during the 1900s collecting antique beer mugs became a popular hobby among beer enthusiasts. The pitchers are also popular in North America, Great Britain, France, Japan, and Russia, and typically come in half-liter or full-liter sizes.
Beer mugs have become increasingly decorative and their lid designs slowly incorporated the invention of the thumb lever, so you could drink your beer without the lid clicking on your teeth as the hinged mug was raised. up to meet her thirsty lips. Modern versions of the jug available today have the beer cap removed as its popularity waned. However, fancy decorative “tourist” editions, usually adorned with a historically inaccurate family emblem, do include these covers.
Between 1850-1910, popularly known as “the golden age of mug making”, the famous Mettlach Stein Company began to produce beer mugs on a large scale. They have now become the most famous type of pitcher in the world, using the skills and craftsmanship of more than 1,200 classically trained artists to build and customize their products. Mettlach produces more than 1,000 different types of jugs and skilled glassmakers were employed to produce thick glass molds. Multicolored glassware was also used, and detailed engravings inlaid with pewter and ceramic soon became a mainstay throughout the market.
The unique appearance and social position of the beer mug made them more than just a drinking utensil; they became a unique object of desire that crossed social boundaries. The jars of the past were adorned with every image you can think of, from biblical stories to political messages to historical lessons. Today, a jug can be adorned with your favorite musical act, a beloved cult television show, or any type of favorite hobby or sport. For some people today, it’s not uncommon for the most treasured family Christmas photos to be transferred to a mug of beer for later generations to enjoy.
