Antique Beer Stein Appraisal

Austrian Heraldic Beer Stein with Pewter Lid

This item is a ceramic beer stein, commonly referred to as a 'bierkrug' in German, featuring a prominently displayed Austrian heraldic crest. The body of the stein is crafted from what appears to be glazed stoneware or ceramic, exhibiting a base color that transitions from a lighter cream or off-white towards a pale greenish-brown around the rim and the base. The central design is a detailed depiction of the Austrian coat of arms, featuring a double-headed eagle holding a hammer and sickle, topped with an imperial crown, and displaying a shield with the red-white-red band. The colors used in the crest are vibrant reds, blues, yellows, and black, contrasting with the paler background. The word 'Austria' is clearly inscribed in a cursive script beneath the heraldic design, confirming its national theme. The stein is topped with an elaborate pewter lid, characteristic of traditional German and Austrian steins. This lid features intricate, raised scrollwork and floral patterns, especially around its perimeter and on the conical finial. The pewter exhibits a slightly dulled, aged patina consistent with older metalware, but there are no obvious signs of severe damage or corrosion visible in the provided image. The overall condition appears good, with the ceramic body showing no visible chips, cracks, or significant wear to the painted decoration. The craftsmanship suggests a souvenir or collectible item, likely produced in the mid-20th century or later, as such commemorative wares became popular.