Jugendstil Steengoed - Reinhold Merkelbach (Grenzhausen) - Model 2130 - Ca. 1905 - Prof. Fritz von Heider - Beer mug - Ceramic

Presented is a beautiful and historically important German stoneware beer stein (0.5 liter) from the early Jugendstil period (circa 1900–1905). This stein was produced by the renowned manufacturer Reinhold Merkelbach in Grenzhausen (Westerwald) and reflects the avant-garde renewal of traditional German stoneware at the beginning of the 20th century.

The clean, modernist relief decoration – consisting of geometric frames with oval, eye-shaped motifs on a deep cobalt blue background – is an iconic design by the renowned German ceramicist and artist Professor Friedrich "Fritz" von Heider (1868–1946). Von Heider radically broke with the then-traditional, overly decorated steins and introduced the architectural form of design that later paved the way for Art Deco.

The underside is fully and clearly marked with the original factory stamp "Reinhold Merkelbach Grenzhausen", the model number 2130, the traditional content marking "6." (for 1/6 scale / 0.5L) and two factory letters "A". The stein is equipped with an original, well-fitting tin hinged lid.

Specifications:
• Manufacturer: Reinhold Merkelbach, Grenzhausen (Germany)
• Designer: Prof. Friedrich "Fritz" von Heider
• Model number: 2130
• Capacity: 0.5 Liter
• Period: Ca. 1900 – 1914 (Jugendstil / Art Nouveau)
• Material: Salt-glazed stoneware (Westerwald stoneware) and tin

Condition:
The object is in excellent, original antique condition. The stoneware is free of chips, cracks or restorations. The tin lid closes tightly and the mounting band around the handle is sturdy and completely intact. See the detail photos for your own precise impression of the outstanding condition.

Carefully packed and shipped with Track & Trace.