German Ceramic Beer Boot 2 Liter Rustic

Product Description

This German made 2 liter ceramic beer boot was originally modeled in the 1920s when the tradition of drinking out of a boot became known (see history below).  One side depicts a soldier with helmet in hand and the text “TAPFER.” “Froh beim Bier.” which translates as: “BRAVE.” “Happy with beer.”  The reverse side shows a wise man with scroll and walking stick pointed at a skull as if to say “leave me alone death”.  The text reads: “WEISE.” “Das loben wir.” which translates as: “WISE.” “That’s what we like.”

The front and back have relief coat of arms/crests featuring a lion and knight that read: “(front)Sei Meister auch im Trinken. Laß Meister den Trunk nicht sein, (back) Wen(n) andere zu Boden sinken. Trink aus und geh dann heim.” which translates as: “(front) Be a master in drinking also. Don’t let the drink master you! (back) When others fall to the ground. Empty it and walk home.”

This brown/cream/rustic finish color combination accents this beautifully detailed and impressive stoneware boot. Columns and arches define the four scenes around the body of the boot with flowers, oak leaves, acorns and a 3D ceramic spur on the heel. Stylized shoe laces are depicted on the toe.

History of “Das Boot!”

Tradition tells that the boot came into use during WWI.  At that time, German soldiers, lacking a better drinking vessel, used their own leather boots (patched to hold liquid) for having what was possibly their last beer.  The boots were then filled to the top with beer and passed among the regiment soldiers with best wishes for a safe return from battle.  American soldiers were introduced to this tradition of drinking from a boot while stationed in Germany after WWII. 

The secret to drinking from the boot is to point the toe sideways. When the toe is pointed downward, the boot cannot be easily emptied. When the toe is pointed upwards, the liquid flows out of the boot very quickly and uncontrollably, usually spilling all over the drinker.

Made in Germany by King-Werk

Height: approx. 12.5″

Volume: 2 Liter