Offered here is an exceptional, authentic late-19th-century German figural character beer stein produced by the renowned Thuringian manufacture C.G. Schierholz & Sohn (Plaue, Germany). The underside bears Schierholz’s distinct underglaze blue crossed-lines mark, dating this piece firmly to circa 1887–1907.

Expertly modeled in hard-paste porcelain, this stein depicts a member of an elite German university fencing fraternity (Corps student or Burschenschafter). The figure is captured in full collegiate regalia: a peaked red-and-white society cap (Mütze), black frock coat, pastel bow tie, and yellow waistcoat crossed by a tri-color student sash (Band). In his right hand, he raises a miniature mug inscribed with the iconic Latin academic anthem, "Gaudeamus Igitur" ("Let Us Rejoice")—the centuries-old anthem celebrating youth, scholarly brotherhood, and university life.

The head serves as the lid, cleanly fitted with an original pewter rim, functional hinge, and an ornate relief-sculpted scroll thumblift mounted to the upper handle. Schierholz character steins are celebrated for their sculptural realism and high-gloss overglaze enamels, and this piece showcases the vivid, expressive hand-painting the Plaue factory was famous for.

Manufacturer: C.G. Schierholz & Sohn (Plaue, Thuringia, Germany)

Maker's Mark: Factory underglaze blue cross mark to unglazed base (c. 1887–1907)

Subject: German Academic Corps / Duelling Society Student

Height: Approx. 8.75 inches

Base Diameter: Approx. 3.5 to 3.75 inches

Weight: 1 lb 10.3 oz (1.645 lbs)

Materials: Glazed hard-paste porcelain with hand-enameled details; mounted pewter collar and lid mechanism

Condition: Excellent antique condition. The porcelain body is free of cracks, chips, hairlines, or repairs. The polychrome enamels remain exceptionally glossy and vibrant. The pewter mount is original, secure, and opens smoothly. Shows honest shelf wear to the unglazed underside rim consistent with age and careful display. Please examine all photos.