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Stein Collectors International, Inc. |
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~ Pewter Steins ~ Collecting Beer Steins - An Introduction to the Hobby |
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Pewter steins generally date from the early 16th century although other types of pewter drinking vessels go back to the Bronze Age. Historically, pewter has been expensive and with the arrival of earthenware in the 19th century, its popularity declined.
A resurgence of pewter occurred during the period 1850 to 1900 when things in the image of bygone epochs were in demand. Most of the imitations of this period were of fine quality and workmanship and were quite expensive. Pewter is lauded for its simplicity. The form is all important.
Pewter pieces are formed by casting and sheet spinning. Finishing is done by turning and various other hand works. Steins were decorated by engraving, etching, punching, stamping and "wriggle" work. Some designs are distinctive to the country of origin with the main identity being in handles, lids, bases and thumblifts. Some pewter steins have touchmarks which refer to the maker, the alloy quality and the town or city of the manufacturer.
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