A tantalus is a locking wooden frame that holds decanters securely in place, preventing anyone from pouring the contents without a key. These frames typically house two or three cut crystal bottles and sit on sideboards or in games compendiums from the period.

How do I clean inside a decanter?

Cleaning the interior requires warm water and specialised non-abrasive cleaning beads or rice to gently dislodge sediment without scratching the crystal surface. Stoppers should be stored separately from the bottles when not in use to prevent them from becoming stuck over time.

Are the stoppers original?

Original stoppers are custom-ground to fit the specific neck of each individual decanter during manufacture. Checking for matching numbers or identical cut patterns on both the bottle and the base of the stopper helps confirm their authenticity.

Can I use them for daily serving?

These decanters function well for serving spirits and wine during meals or gatherings, provided they receive careful hand washing. Avoiding sudden temperature changes protects the heavy lead crystal from thermal shock.