In England and North America, traditional beer mugs are called ‘Stein’, which is short for the German word ‘Steingut’ meaning ‘stoneware’. Very often these mugs are quite ornamental and many sell as souvenirs or collectibles. This particular Stein is indeed made of stoneware and was meant for private use. It can hold one liter of beer and has a pewter lid with the engraved initials of a previous owner. The front is decorated with an hand-enameled depiction of two men in medieval attire. One seems to be making a toast while the other one points up with his finger. The mug which is in perfect condition is marked with number 2323. A poem on the front states: Knowing how to drink is not an art, understanding how to drink is by the grace of God. We believe that the Stein dates from around 1880 but it may be slightly earlier. It originates from the German-speaking part of Europe. Total height including lid 23 cm. Height mug 18 cm. Diameter at the base 10.3 cm.