Mettlach: Premier German Beer Steins and Decorative Stoneware
Mettlach refers to the decorated stoneware produced at the Villeroy & Boch factory in Mettlach, Germany, from the mid-19th century through the early 20th century. Renowned for their technically brilliant beer steins, plaques, and decorative pieces featuring etched, relief, cameo, and hand-painted designs, Mettlach steins represent the pinnacle of German stoneware production and are among the most systematically collected antiques in the world.
History and Production
The Villeroy & Boch factory in Mettlach, located in the Saarland region, began producing decorated stoneware around 1842. The factory developed several proprietary decorating techniques that set their wares apart. Production of collectible steins and plaques peaked from the 1880s through 1910, with World War I effectively ending the golden age. The factory assigned model numbers to each design, creating a systematic catalog that collectors use to identify and classify pieces today.
Types and Decorating Techniques
- Etched (chromolith): Multi-colored designs etched into the surface, then filled with colored glazes; the most collected technique
- PUG (Print Under Glaze): Transfer-printed designs; more affordable production method
- Relief/molded: Three-dimensional designs pressed into the stoneware
- Cameo: White relief figures on colored grounds, inspired by Wedgwood jasperware
- Mosaic: Geometric inlaid designs
- Hand-painted: Artist-decorated pieces, often signed
- Plaques: Decorative wall plates, typically 12-18 inches in diameter
Identification
Every collectible Mettlach piece bears essential markings:
- Castle mark: The Mettlach abbey/castle tower stamp, usually incised or printed
- Form number: Four-digit mold number identifying the shape
- Decoration number: Identifies the specific design applied
- Size designation: Indicates capacity (typically in liters)
- Date codes: Mercury/caduceus mark with year of production
- Artist signatures: Present on hand-painted and some etched pieces
Auction Price Ranges
| Item | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Rare etched stein (desirable subject) | $1,000 - $5,000 |
| Common etched stein (1/2 liter) | $300 - $800 |
| Etched plaque (large, signed) | $500 - $3,000 |
| Cameo stein | $400 - $1,500 |
| PUG stein (1/2 liter) | $75 - $250 |
| Relief/molded stein | $100 - $400 |
| Mosaic stein | $200 - $600 |
| Character stein (figural) | $500 - $3,000 |
Condition Factors
- Lid condition: Original pewter or inlaid lids are essential; replacement lids reduce value 30-50%
- Hairlines and cracks: Cracks through decorated surfaces are particularly damaging to value
- Inlay lid integrity: Stoneware inlay lids are prone to chipping; intact examples command premiums
- Surface wear: Etched and PUG designs can show wear from use and cleaning
- Pewter quality: Original Mettlach pewter fittings versus generic replacements affect value
Collecting Tips
The Mettlach collecting community is well-organized, with comprehensive reference books documenting every known model number and decoration. This systematic cataloging makes the field unusually accessible to new collectors. Etched steins with figural scenes, occupational themes, or Germanic mythological subjects bring the strongest prices. PUG steins offer an affordable entry point and are undervalued relative to their age and quality. Plaques are a strong alternative for collectors who prefer wall display. The form number is the single most important identifier when buying, as it allows precise comparison with auction records. Attend stein shows and auctions where specialists congregate, as the community is knowledgeable and pieces are well-vetted.