Antique Blonde Oak Tantalus Dry Bar 3 Decanter & Games Compendium 19th C

This is a superb antique Victorian golden oak cased three-decanter Tantalus with decorative silver-plated cut brass Gothic Revival mounts and carry handles to the sides, circa 1880 in date.

This magnificent tantalus features three wonderful hobnail cut square decanters with faceted ball stoppers and a mirrored back. The twin flap compartment in front reveals a delightful divided interior with two glasses and spaces for extras.

 

There is a secret compartment in the base, which can be opened by pressing the secret button in front of the central decanter, revealing two packs of playing cards.

Complete with the original, working Bramah lock and key.

It is a truly decorative piece which is also very practical and would make a lovely gift.

 

Condition:

In excellent condition, having been beautifully cleaned, polished, and waxed in our workshops; please see photos for confirmation.

 

Dimensions in cm:

Height 31 cm x Width 36 cm x Depth 28 cm

Dimensions in inches:

Height 1 foot x Width 1 foot, 2 inches x Depth 11 inches

Tantalus

is a type of liquor decanter in which the bottle stoppers are locked down tightly by a metal bar. This was to prevent the theft of the contents by servants. As the name suggests, the decanters themselves are visible, drawing temptation while unattainable. A key is required for entry.

The most common types of tantalus hold three bottles or decanters, while there are also smaller types housing only two. There are many different forms of tantalus. Often the encasement has metal handles on both sides and ornately carved decor. Crystal and metal versions are also a beautiful option when choosing a tantalus.

Tantalus derived its name from the story of the mythological Greek king, Tantalus, mortal son of Zeus and Pluto. To be tantalized is to be tempted with the unattainable, and the king was sorely tested. He was condemned to an eternity in Hades for angering the Gods and was forced to stand forever in water that, when he bent to drink, would recede, and to gaze upon foods he could only reach for and never grasp.

The 1800s saw our Victorian predecessors apply the King’s name to the lockable decanter.

Oak 

is a tree or shrub in the genus Quercus - Latin for "oak tree" having approximately 600 extant species. Oak wood has a density of about 0.75 g/cm3, great strength and hardness, and is very resistant to insect and fungal attack because of its high tannin content. It also has very appealing grain markings, particularly when quartersawn. Oak wood is very durable, easy to maintain, and resistant to wear and tear, which is why it can be easily handed to future generations if taken well care of. 

Oak wood virtually lasts forever and you can still admire oak furniture in museums and palaces even if it was made many centuries ago. Oak has been prized since the Middle Ages for use in interior panelling of prestigious buildings such as the debating chamber of the House of Commons in London and in the construction of fine furniture. 

Bramah

is London's oldest security company. Established at 124 Piccadilly, London in 1784, and today based in Marylebone, London and Romford, Essex.

Bramah made their first lock in 1784 and the patent was awarded in 1787. The designer was Joseph Bramah. Joseph Bramah was a leading inventor of the Industrial Revolution, patenting over 18 new ideas, including a new valve for the water closet (toilet), the hydraulic pump, a fountain pen, and a fire engine.

Bramah also introduced a beer hand pump for use at the bar, to prevent fluid loss when barmen went downstairs to pour a new jug! Due to the quality of his manufacturing, his name became a byword amongst British Engineers for engineering excellence and many of his inventions are on display in the Science Museum in London. You can find one of his original toilets still working in Osborne House, Queen Victoria's home on the Isle of Wight.

Our reference: A5250