A French Napoleon 111 Tantalus/liquor Cave a Liquer

A fine 19th-century French Napoleon III cave à liqueur, crafted in beautifully figured burl wood veneer with elegant brass and boulle-style marquetry inlay to the front. The shaped case opens to reveal a complete fitted interior containing crystal decanters and matching glasses arranged in a removable service tray. Currently Stored in Haywards Heath in West Sussex.

The hinged top and folding side panels allow the interior tray to lift out for serving, a clever design typical of high-quality French traveling liquor sets of the period. The ornate escutcheon and decorative inlay add a refined decorative element, making the piece as much a display object as it is functional.

Inside, the set includes four crystal decanters of which three are same one slightly different all in great condition with faceted stoppers and Sixteen matching glasses also all good, all arranged in their original fitted frame. The decanters feature elegant panel cutting and geometric stoppers typical of late 19th-century French glasswork.

The box rests on turned bun feet, and the rich burl veneer gives the exterior a dramatic swirling grain that is especially sought after in Napoleon III decorative arts.

A sophisticated piece that works beautifully in a bar, study, or library, and an excellent example of the luxurious entertaining pieces popular in France during the late 1800s.

Period: Late 19th century (Napoleon III, circa 1870–1890)

Origin: France

Materials: Burl wood veneer, marquetry inlay, brass hardware, crystal glass

Contents: 4 decanters with stoppers, 8 glasses, fitted removable tray

Form: Folding cave à liqueur / tantalus style liquor cabinet

Condition: Very good antique condition overall with age-appropriate wear. Minor surface marks to the veneer consistent with use. Glassware appears in very good condition. Interior retains its original structure and function.

We are primarily a web based business showing high quality antiques and decorative items in two warehouses in Lambourn Woodlands, Berkshire and Tetbury , Gloucestershire . Within easy reach of M4 Junctions and with a mainline station nearby and good private car parking facilities at all venues. We display the widest variety of antiques at all price levels, including paintings, furniture, fireside pieces and other decorative interior items. Not all our items are at any particular place so please call or email (enquiries@marlboroughantiques.com) or from our Contact page to avoid disappointment. Please view our Terms and conditions if needed at http://www.marlboroughantiques.com/terms.php.

We are very happy to discuss with clients their needs and to provide a sourcing service. We can advise on the acquisition of pieces in all areas of the fine and decorative arts, assisting clients in their search for individual pieces or for a particular item. If you have queries regarding this or any intended purchase please contact us. All items can be delivered either by postal service or by trusted and fully insured couriers; we use both for the UK market and for overseas delivery. Please inquire by email or phone to obtain a quote for delivery options. Items are described as Excellent - A1 Condition no faults, Very Good - very good condition with only very minor cosmetic issues if atall and consistent with age, Good - in good overall condition with some ageing, marks and wear consistent with age.