Germany, Imperial. A Fine Hand Painted 2nd Infanterie-Regiment Kaiser Wilhelm Stein

(Reservistenkrug). This is an extremely fine quality honourary “Bierstein” of the 2. Infanterie “Kaiser Wilhelm” Großherzogliches Nr. 116 Regiment. The base of the mug is constructed of fine white porcelain with a glossy finish, and is delicately painted by hand. Depicted on the front of the mug are two scenes, separated by a finely detailed Prussian crown in the center, with the Regimental seal, as well as two Imperial German flags pointed in opposing directions. Towards the bottom is a banner with an inscription reading “Erinnerung an meine Dienstzeit bei der 11. Companie” (In remembrance of my military service in the 11th Company). One the left of the mug is a scene of the Regiment’s encampment, illustrating three tents, a camp fire, and Officers and Enlisted Men socializing, relaxing, and smoking a pipe, with “Hoch die tapfere Infanterie, auf dem Posten spät und früh” (Honour the brave infantry, on guard late and early) hand written in black paint towards the bottom. Towards the right is a scene are six soldiers gearing up for battle and waving the Regimental flag, with “In des Gefechtes Mitte stehen wir wie Mauern für Deutschlands Ruhm und Ehre für Vaterland und Fürst” (In the middle of the battle we stand like walls for Germany's fame and honour, for the fatherland and the prince) hand written in black paint towards the bottom. The top and bottom edges of the mug are equally ordained with writing, reading “Es lebe hoch das Regiment das sich mit Stolz Kaiser Wilhelm nennt” (Long live the regiment that proudly names itself Kaiser Wilhelm) on the top, and “Infantrie Regiment Kaiser Wilhelm 2. Großherzogliches Nr. 116 Regiment Giessen. 1903-05” on the bottom. The lid is constructed of polished metal (non-magnetic), depicting a soldier sitting on a rock, lifting his flask as to be “Cheersing” the Regiment. The thumb piece depicts a standing up lion with the Prussian crown on its head, leaning onto a large shield. The bottom interior of the mug features a monogram when held against the light (visible after finishing ones drink), depicting the shadows of a happy couple, inscribed “Parole Heimat” (Our Motto is the Homeland). The porcelain beer stein measures 174 mm tall and 112 mm at the base, and 280 mm tall in total. This is an extremely fine quality stein seldom encountered with such meticulous craftsmanship, and in near mint condition.