Kruger Park - Kruger Park

Name: Kruger Park
 
Type: Kruger Park Giraffe Beer Mug
 
Year: Mid-20th century (circa 1950s–1970s)
 
Set: No
 
Mark: Kruger Park - "KRUGER PARK" with code "A25"
 
History: This cylindrical ceramic beer mug features a classic mid-century glaze in earth tones, with a central hand-applied image of two giraffes in a savannah setting. The rustic brown and cream glaze blends into a naturalistic background, mimicking the wildlife scene depicted. The painterly style, with softly feathered edges and detailed rendering of flora and fauna, suggests a tourist or commemorative piece, likely produced for sale within or around South Africa’s Kruger National Park.
 
 
The base is marked with a simple “KRUGER PARK” stamp and a serial-style designation “A25.” While this is not a known manufacturer's hallmark, this type of identification is consistent with smaller regional pottery operations that serviced game reserves and gift shops from the 1950s through the 1970s. These pieces were often made by hand or in limited batches, and their rustic charm now appeals to collectors of mid-century African souvenirs or wildlife-themed ceramics.
 
 
The clay body appears to be terracotta, consistent with the redware seen on the unglazed base, and the glaze technique reveals sponge or airbrushed application around the rim and handle.
 
 
Although unbranded in the traditional sense, the piece’s subject, form, and style firmly place it within a collectible niche. Its value lies in regional interest and thematic appeal rather than studio pedigree.
 
Flaws: None