The origins of steins date back to
the 14th century. As a result of the bubonic plague and several invasions of
flies throughout Europe shortly thereafter, Germany established several laws
in the early 16th century requiring that all food and beverage containers be
covered to protect their contents. By combining a lid, hinge, and thumblift,
these 'German' containers could easily be opened and closed with one hand.
About
this time many efforts were also made to improve the earthenware material
used for steins. By raising the firing temperature, clay was vitrified into
a solid, moisture-free, stone-like material called stoneware. Because this
new material was much more durable than the previous earthenware, steins
made of stoneware became very popular and many different types of designs
and decorations were artistically applied to them.
The guild system was firmly entrenched in European society at this time. The
pewter guild, combined with the heightened awareness for hygiene among food
containers, created an environment in Germany that would ensure the presence
of permanently attached pewter lids on stoneware drinking vessels for the
next 300 years. By the end of the 19th century, the stein was clearly
defined as being made in Europe, primarily of stoneware and primarily with a
permanently attached pewter lid.
The
history of steins includes the development and introduction of several
different materials other than stoneware. Pewter was not only used for lids,
but also as a primary body material. It was the material of choice
throughout large areas of Europe and particularly popular in England. Glass,
porcelain and silver steins were introduced several hundred years ago as
well and are all still available today.
Many stein-decorating styles and techniques were developed over the
centuries, offering further diversity to this creative, historical,
artistic, and ever-evolving gift item.
Today, the stein and tankard industry remains primarily represented by those
factories in Germany and England who are from the original regions where
history has demonstrated the industry to have been founded. Centuries-old
traditions continue to train the skilled hands and eyes that are required to
create these steins. We are proud to feature the works of these
authentic factories and industry leaders in our catalog.
