German Stoneware Pitcher Appraisal

Vintage German Salt-Glazed Blue and Grey Stoneware Pitcher (Bembel)

This is a small, traditional German salt-glazed stoneware pitcher, commonly known as a 'Bembel.' The vessel features a globular body tapering into a narrow neck with a small pouring spout and a loop handle on the side. It is constructed from heavy-duty ceramic with a characteristic grey salt-glaze finish that exhibits a slightly pitted, 'orange peel' texture common to Westerwald pottery. The ornamentation consists of vibrant cobalt blue (Kobaltblau) relief designs, including a grape cluster, a stylized whimsical sun-like figure, and a banner containing German text (likely 'Wiesbaden' or a similar regional/winery designation). These designs are hand-applied or molded and then highlighted with blue pigment before firing. The condition appears fair to good for a vintage piece, with visible surface crazing throughout the glaze and some minor scuffing on the bottom rim. There are no obvious large chips or cracks visible in the primary photograph, though the pitting in the blue relief is typical of mass-produced souvenir stoneware from the mid-to-late 20th century (approx. 1950s-1970s). The craftsmanship is representative of regional German folk-style ceramics often sold for serving Apfelwein (apple wine) or as tourist collectibles.