A tantalus is a locking frame that holds decanters upright while keeping the stoppers locked in place. It allows the bottles to be seen clearly while preventing uninvited pours. The mechanism uses a hinged metal bar across the neck of each decanter, secured by a key-operated lock at the side of the box.

How were these boxes used?

These boxes served as portable or stationary liquor cabinets for entertaining guests in the dining room or drawing room. They kept spirits, glasses and sometimes games together in one secure place. Wealthy households used them to lock away expensive imported liqueurs and wines from domestic staff or guests when the master of the house was away.

Are the decanters removable?

Yes, the decanters lift entirely out of their fitted wooden or velvet-lined partitions once the locking bar or lid is opened. Each bottle sits in a tailored well designed to prevent shifting during transit. When the locking mechanism is engaged, however, the stoppers cannot be removed and the bottles remain trapped inside the frame.

How do I tell Regency from Victorian boxes?

Regency boxes tend to favour clean architectural lines, heavy mahogany or rosewood timbers, and brass campaign mounts. They often double as cellarettes or simple bottle cases. Victorian boxes introduce greater complexity, such as coromandel veneers, mixed games compendiums, complex tantalus locking bars and elaborate satinwood stringing.