Featured Stein: February 2015
~ Rare Mettlach Renaissance-Red Stein Set by Matthias Hein ~
By Johnsamuel Coleman
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We do not know much biographical data on Matthias Hein, with the exception that he worked for Villeroy & Boch between 1885 and 1901 and created these two well known Mettlach steins, numbers 1997 (PUG) – George Ehret Brewery and Mettlach no. 2824- Wartburg Krug. |  |
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| A set of
Mettlach Renaissance-red steins designed by Matthias Hein. The steins
are #1983 (both quarter- and half-liter) and 1984 (the 3.4-Liter master
stein). As shown, the half-liter also was made in brush-gold color. |
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The here discussed Mettlach number 1983 introduces a Renaissance
red color not found on any other Mettlach stein. [The term "Renaissance-red" stems from a particular color which appeared in Renaissance paintings of caps (headgear). This color was made possible by newly discovered insect dyes which allowed the color to be used for painting and textiles. It could not, of course be used on fired ceramics, since an organic dye would burn away.]
You can see the clear lines between the clay inserts to form
this pattern. Also note the reversal of color in the pattern. On the
3.4 liter the background color is white while on the ¼ and ½ liters the
Renaissance red is in the background color. This creates a very
striking color contrast.
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The handle is also unique in that there are clay insert
patterns on it. That means the handle is also etched. All three sizes
were signed: M. [atthias] Hein by the handle. The acorn finial on the 3.4 liter is rarely found undamaged. You will note on the 3.4 liter stein the acorn in the finial is in full bloom, while in the ¼ and ½ liter steins you see the finial as if it is a tip of a growing acorn. This is a renaissance concept of growth in art and art as growth. |
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