What is a brass mounted tantalus?

A brass mounted tantalus is a Victorian locking drinks cabinet that holds decanters securely beneath a metal bar. It allows hosts to display expensive spirits while preventing unauthorized access to the bottles.

How do you open a tantalus?

Opening the mechanism requires a matching key inserted into the brass lock to release the hinged retaining bar. Once unlocked, the bar pivots upward or drops away, freeing the decanter stoppers so the bottles can be lifted out.

What woods were used for these boxes?

Victorian makers typically constructed these cabinets from durable oak or exotic coromandel timber. Oak provides a sturdy, traditional finish, while coromandel offers rich figuring and deep contrasting grain patterns.

How many decanters do they hold?

Most examples from this period are configured to accommodate three matched crystal decanters. The interior layout includes fitted wooden partitions to keep each heavy glass vessel stable within the box.

Are the locks original?

Many surviving pieces retain their working brass locks, though keys are frequently replaced over time. Inspect the surrounding wood and brass escutcheon to see if the hardware has remained undisturbed since the nineteenth century.

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Brass Mounted Tantalus

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A brass mounted tantalus is a secure Victorian drinks cabinet designed to lock away fine spirits while still displaying them through heavy glass.

Decanters Set of 3, Rare Locking Feature

19th century

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Decanters Set of 3, Rare Locking Feature

From Sovereign Antiques Of Nuneaton

£975

FOR SALE

glass

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Brass Mounted Tantalus

Decanters Set of 3, Rare Locking Feature

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