Crystal Decanter in Stand
A crystal decanter in stand brings heavy glass and polished metal together for the sideboard, holding spirits safely under lock or in open frames.
Crystal Decanter in Stand
A crystal decanter in stand takes the form of tantalus frames, spirit barrels, cruet sets and games compendiums made to hold heavy glass vessels. These pieces range from single bottle oak cases to elaborate three bottle Coromandel locking frames.
Victorian and Edwardian examples dominate the selection, spanning decades from the mid nineteenth century into the early twentieth century. Oak, silver plate and cut crystal form the core of what collectors encounter on this page.
Makers and retailers such as Betjemann, Walker & Hall, Elkington, Hukin and Heath, The Goldsmith Co., Philip Ashberry and Mappin & Webb appear across the records. These pieces served dining rooms and after dinner hospitality in domestic interiors.
What varies in quality
The choice of cabinet wood and metalwork defines the grade of a piece, with exotic timbers like coromandel and substantial silver plating marking out superior work. Heavier timber frames and intricate brass or silver hardware indicate better workshop production.
Object forms range from single bottle spirit cases and cruet sets to multi bottle tantalus frames with games boxes.
Walker & Hall·Betjemann·Elkington·Hukin and Heath·The Goldsmith Co·Philip Ashberry·Mappin & Webb
The Crystal Decanter in Stand Glossary
- Tantalus
- A locking drink stand that holds decanters securely within a metal and wood frame so bottles cannot be removed without a key. The mechanism engages with the stoppers to prevent access.
- Coromandel wood
- A dense, dark exotic timber with contrasting figure, often utilised for high end Victorian boxes and tantalus frames. It provides a luxurious surface finish.
- Cruet set
- A frame holding multiple bottles or jars for condiments, oils or vinegars, often produced in silver plate during the Georgian and Victorian periods.
- Silver plate
- A base metal coated with a layer of silver, widely utilised for nineteenth century frames, handles and mounts. It offers the appearance of solid silver at lower weight and cost.
- Spirit barrel
- A horizontal glass or crystal barrel mounted on a stand, designed for dispensing liquor via a small tap. They appear in Victorian and Charles X contexts.
Crystal Decanter in Stand: Frequently Asked Questions
What is a tantalus?
A tantalus is a locking drinks cabinet or frame that secures decanters behind a metal bar so guests cannot pour spirits without a key. The design frustrates the thirsty while displaying the cut crystal bottles.
Most examples hold three decanters in an oak or coromandel base fitted with a silver plated handle and locking mechanism.
Were these pieces used daily?
These stands and decanter sets served dining rooms and drawing rooms during evening entertaining and after dinner gatherings. Wealthy households kept spirits locked away to control access by staff and guests.
Combining drinks frames with games compendiums allowed hosts to provide both entertainment and hospitality from a single piece of furniture.
How do I care for silver plated stands?
Silver plated frames benefit from gentle dusting and occasional cleaning with a non abrasive silver polish to maintain the shine. Moisture should be kept away from wood veneers and interior velvet linings during maintenance.
Crystal decanters wash out with warm water and bottle brushes, leaving stoppers removed until completely dry.