Up for sale is a stunning, highly collectible 1978 Villeroy & Boch Mettlach limited edition beer stein. This is an early production piece, individually stamped as number 1528 from a strictly limited, one-time edition run.
This stein is part of the legendary Russian Fairy Tales series produced in collaboration with Viking Penguin Inc.
This specific tankard brings to life the classic folk epic \"In Search of the Firebird\", featuring vibrant, multi-paneled porcelain artwork accented with gleaming gold details. The base and handle are finished in a brilliant, deep cobalt blue glaze that contrasts beautifully with the colorful storytelling illustrations.
The craftsmanship extends completely across the piece, utilizing premium porcelain and pewter components:
• The Base: The bottom ring of text documents the narrative progression shown on the panels: \"In Search of the Firebird\", \"Ivan and Tsarevna on the Grey Wolf\", and \"The Wedding of Tsarevna Elena the Fair\".
• The Lid Top: A gorgeous porcelain inset capturing the final celebratory scene of Ivan Tsarevich and the Beautiful Elena escaping together on the Grey Wolf.
• The Lid Interior: Open the lid to find the Imperial Russian Double-Headed Eagle coat of arms cleanly emblazoned on the white porcelain underside.
• The Thumblift: Features the iconic, highly detailed solid pewter thumblift modeled after the historic Mettlach Abbey tower.
Verified Factory Markings (See Photos):
The underside of the base features all authentic, original factory hallmarks:
• Clear black text reading: \"© 1978 BY VIKING PENGUIN INC.\"
• The hand-stamped limited edition serial number: 1528
• The faint, authentic white-on-white embossed Mettlach Abbey factory relief logo pressed directly into the porcelain paste, alongside the matching impressed shape number 1528 and \"MADE IN GERMANY\".
This stein is in excellent, collector-quality mint condition.
• Porcelain: Free of any chips, cracks, crazing, or hairline fractures. The top lid inset, inner eagle graphic, and main body panels are completely clean and pristine.
• Glaze & Trim: Gold gilding is fully intact with no rubbing or wear. Colors remain incredibly rich and vibrant.
• Pewter Hardware: The hinge is perfectly straight, tight, and operates smoothly. The Mettlach tower thumblift is sturdy and features a clean, even, authentic matte vintage patina with zero oxidation or metal fatigue.
• Please note: This listing is for the stein only.
Review images provided as this is the exact stein that you will receive.
Sold As Is, As Shown. No Returns.
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