Antique Early German Brown Earthenware Beer Stein Melonenkrug Bunzlau c. Description: Presented is a rare example of early German pottery made around mid-1700s. This high-fired earthenware brown-glazed beer stein was made in Bunzlau – the town in Lower Silesia. In fact, all the pottery production from small towns in Lower Silesia is called “Bunzlau”. Every German town and every region that was known to make pottery had it’s own unique technologies and trade secrets. That’s why we can determine where a particular piece was made based on the appearance, style and the type of the pottery. The steins of this kind were called “Melonenkrug” or “Melon-shaped stein” because of round shape and vertical or diagonal ribs. These ribs were made by hand from inside initially and later with a help of a special instrument. The lead-based brown glaze was typical for Bunzlau. The pewter lid is dome-shaped with hollow ball thumblift. It is engraved with initials F. The pewter lip ring and neck ring were intended to support the neck and is very typical for Bunzlau Melonenkruge. The stein is large and impressive – it stands 15 tall to the top of the thumblif, with approx. A very similar but smaller stein is featured in Gery Kirsner’s “The Beer Stein Book” on page 40. The stein is in a good condition, the appearance is excellent. The handle was broken some time ago and glued back together, supported by the pewter handle strap. Otherwise no issues – no cracks or chips or any other repairs. Some age-related glaze and pewter wear only. This is a very good condition overall for a stein over 250 years old. It is very impressive and elegant and a true historical piece that carries over 200 years of both culture and technology. I guarantee the authencity. Track Page Views With.