How do you open a vintage tantalus?

Most tantalus frames require a matching key to turn the lock mechanism, which lifts or swings the top retaining bar away from the decanter stoppers. Once the bar clears the glass necks, the decanters lift freely out of their wooden base slots.

What is the difference between a tantalus and a cellaret?

A tantalus is an open-framed holder with a locking bar across the decanters, allowing guests to see the bottles while preventing unauthorised pours. A cellaret is a larger enclosed box, chest, or cabinet designed to store multiple bottles out of sight.

How can I date a wooden spirit caddy?

Dating relies on identifying the timber species, joinery methods, and the style of brass mounts or lock hardware. Georgian and 18th century pieces use heavy mahogany with subtle hand-cut joints, while Victorian and Edwardian examples frequently feature quarter-sawn oak with stamped brass or plated fittings.

Are the decanters original to the frames?

Many pieces retain their matched cut crystal decanters, but replacement bottles are common due to breakage over decades of use. Examining the fit in the base and the pattern of the cut glass helps determine if the bottles belong to the original frame.

Search 0

65,812 PAGES BROWSED TODAY PAGES TODAY • 161 ANTIQUES UPLOADED TODAYNEW ARRIVALS

Sorted by

Per page

VISITOR LOGIN JOIN AS A SELLER DEALER LOGIN

Saved

GIFTS

Vintage Spirit Caddy

161 ITEMS ADDED TODAY

Visitor Login (saved items)

Sort Order

Items Per Page

Vintage Spirit Caddy

23 items · page 2 of 2

← Page 2 of 2 →

A vintage spirit caddy secures your finest bottles with clever lockwork or displays them in neat frames, bringing both hospitality and period craftsmanship to the sideboard.