STEIN LID CLASSIFICATIONS
The original purpose of the stein lid,
as well as the body itself, is far from glamorous. Since the very
first steins were simple drinking vessels, the primary reason for
the lid was functional — common-sense precaution to keep insects and
other contaminants away from the aromatic liquid. In addition to this,
early functions of lids were to help keep the liquid at a constant
temperature as well as to prevent spillage. Lids, even in the early
days, provided an attractive finishing touch.
Today, the “finishing touch” aspect is by far the most important reason
for the lid. In many cases, the lid is the most important feature
of the stein. Hundreds of different lids are currently available —
however, the vast majority of them can be categorized into the following
groups:
•CONICAL — This is the “cone”- or “steeple”-shaped llid. It
is the most common and least expensive type of lid. Today, most conical lids
are entirely made of pewter and machine made. However, they can also be made
from a white base metal. The surface is then plated with a nickel or similar
alloy to create a shiny finish, or a pewter or pewter-like alloy to create a
dark antique finish.
•ORNAMENTAL — Ornamental lids are always pewter. They feature
superior detail, require special hand work, and are presently the most popular
lids for limited-edition steins. They generally have glorified conical shape,
complete with a top finial. Recently the stein factories have been introducing
very interesting ornamental pewter lids, many of which are included on this
site.
•FLAT — Flat lids, also known as semi-flat lids, are normally
made of pewter. Although not entirely flat, the top surface does lend itself
well to engraving.
•INLAY/FIGURINE — A very attractive lid, virtually always
consisting of a pewter rim, a pewter flange (or lip), and a stoneware figurine
or ornamental inlaid in the center.
•FIGURINE — “Top of the line” lid in which a figurine, most
often made of pewter, is mounted on an ornamental pewter lid.
•STONEWARE — Just as the name implies, the top is made of the
same material as the body (see Loony Tunes Bugs Bunny, Elmer Fudd and Daffy Duck
stein at left for an example). A pewter or metal alloy hinge, strap, tang, shank,
support, and thumblift are also used.
Article
courtesy of M. Cornell Steins
Additional stein information:
A Brief History of Steins
Stein Materials Definitions
Tour a Stein Factory
