GERMAN BEER GLASS
GERMAN BEER GLASS
Der Bierhumpen (beer glass) - Also known as der Krug, der Seidel or der Halber.
Like other items that differ greatly by regional, historical or other characteristics, beer glasses are such a gigantic variety that sometimes it is simply difficult to classify them.
Typically, the term "Humpen" or "Bierhumpen" refers to a vessel having a capacity of 0.3 to 1 liter. From about the 15th or 16th centuries, these mugs began to be drunk mainly beer, although sometimes other drinks, such as wine or mead, were also drunk. But already at the regional level, they differ in their names. So, for example, in the German-speaking environment, the names Bierseidel, Mass, Henkel, Schellen, Halber, Krug are widespread.
Beer glasses are of great cultural and historical interest as well as collectibles. For the first time, references to the usual beer cups surfaced around the 16th century. The classic German beer goblet has a cylindrical shape and a handle like a large mug.
A beer mug can be either open or equipped with a special lid with a lever for lifting it. But the second option has become virtually obligatory for a real German beer glass, if we are talking about an original gift from Germany, and not about mass beer bar dishes. The main theory behind the lifted lid was the need to protect beer from insects at the height of medieval epidemics in Europe such as the plague.
While in Bavaria the standard volume for beer mugs (Masskrug) is 1 liter, in other lands there are other standards, mainly 0.3 / 0.33 / 0.5 liters, there are also 0.75 liters. ...
Most beer mugs, both historical and collectible today , are beautifully decorated with various reliefs, paintings or emblems. Especially were and remain favorite allegorical images and scenes of hunting. To express belonging to a particular circle, for example, a craft guild, special versions were often made, sometimes reduced or simplified versions of expensive glasses. Over time, this tradition has spread to other partnerships and societies.
Unlike antique earthenware or wooden beer mugs, most modern ones are made from glass, simply for reasons of mass and convenience. Nevertheless, ceramic glasses are also used with pleasure by breweries as advertising material or souvenirs.
The traditional German ceramic mug is still especially beloved among connoisseurs and connoisseurs, not only because the beer in it can stay cool longer, but also based on the observance of traditions and old customs. And what a wonderful gift these masterpieces of ancient arts and crafts can be!
Original beer mugs, hand-decorated with drawings with Bavarian or other German motifs, will remind collectors of the world famous Oktoberfest beer festival or an unforgettable trip to wonderful German towns and castles such as Neuschwanstein or Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
