Details
Description
A commemorative mug made for the 19th Border Guard Unit Pirna, a unit of the East German Border Guard (GDR), …
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A commemorative mug made for the 19th Border Guard Unit Pirna, a unit of the East German Border Guard (GDR), in the 1950s.
This original ceramic mug was made by the Hedwig Bollhagen (HB) factory, one of the most important and respected artistic ceramics factories in post-war Germany. The piece dates from the GDR period and is distinguished by its striking, contrasting black and green decoration and the simple, graphic aesthetic typical of HB, inspired by modernism and Bauhaus.
The mug's surface bears the inscription "19th Border Guard Unit Pirna," referring to the border guard unit stationed in Pirna (Saxony), giving it a unique, historical, and documentary character. These commemorative commissions are particularly sought after by collectors of HB ceramics and enthusiasts of GDR design and history.
The massive, cylindrical form, with a comfortable handle, emphasizes the utilitarian yet decorative nature of the piece. Hand-glazing and minor irregularities are typical of workshop production and confirm the authenticity of the piece.
Characteristics
Design/Manufacturer: Hedwig Bollhagen (HB)
Origin: Germany (GDR)
Period: 1950s–1960s
Material: Glazed ceramic
Decoration: Hand-applied, graphic
Colors: Black, green
Signature: Typical for HB products (if present, it's worth showing in a photo)
Dimensions
Height: 12 cm
Diameter: 9 cm
Base diameter: 7 cm
Width with handle: 13 cm
Condition
Very good condition – no cracks or chips. Only slight signs of wear, consistent with age, are visible.
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- Dimensions
- 5.1ʺW × 3.5ʺD × 4.7ʺH
- Period
- 1960s
- Country of Origin
- Germany
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Ceramic
- Condition
- Good Condition, Original Condition Unaltered, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Black
- Condition Notes
- Condition Very good condition – no cracks or chips. Only slight signs of wear, consistent with age, are visible. Condition Very good condition – no cracks or chips. Only slight signs of wear, consistent with age, are visible. less
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