TantalusTantalus
A tantalus is a type of liquor decanter in which the bottle stoppers are locked down tightly by a metal bar. This was to prevent the theft of the contents by servants. Like the name suggests, the decanters themselves are visible, drawing temptation while unattainable. A key is required for entry.
The most common types of tantalus holds three bottles or decanters while there are also smaller types housing only two. There are many different forms of tantalus. Often the encasement has metal handles on both sides and ornately carved decor. Crystal and metal versions are also a beautiful option when choosing a tantalus
The tantalus derived its name from the story of the mythological Greek king, Tantalus. To be tantalized is to be tempted with the unattainable, and the king, condemned to an eternity in Hades, was sorely tested. He was forced to stand forever in water that, when he bent to drink, would recede and to gaze upon foods he could only reach for and never grasp.
The following tantalus are part of a life long collection which we are lucky to be able to offer for sale.
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| Edwardian three bottle tantalus. Oak and silver plate. Good condition. TAN001 |
Three bottle oak tantalus with crib board and compartments for glasses and playing cards. Crystal bottles and stoppers Circa 1900 TAN002 |
Three bottle tantalus TAN003 |
Oak frame tantalus with three hobnail crystal bottles and stoppers Circa 1900 TAN004 |
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| Early 20th century silver plated two bottle tantalus frame with two crystal decanters TAN005 |
Fenton Bros Sheffield, England. Staniforth's patent.Late Victorian silver plated tantalus with three crystal decanters and stoppers. Circa 1870 TAN006 |
Three bottle tantalus. Silver plated frame with hobnail crystal decanters and stoppers. Maker KP and CO EP Circa 1900 TAN007 |
Three bottle oak and silver plate frame tantalus with hob nail crystal decanters and stoppers. Circa 1900 TAN008 |
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| Victorian silver plated spirit decanter stand with three crystal decanters TAN009 |
Early 20th century three bottle tantalus. Oak frame and silver plated fittings TAN010 |
Edwardian two bottle tantalus with oak frame and two crystal bottles. TAN011 |
Top quality three bottle tantalus in oak frame. Crystal decanters. Circa 1900 TAN012 |
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| Three bottle tantalus. Oak and silver plated frame with crystal decanters and stoppers Circa 1900 TAN013 |
Antique three bottle tantalus with oak frame and silver plated fitting. Circa 1900 TAN014 |
Oak Edwardian Gentleman's travelling companion with original tobacco jar TAN015 |
Three bottle oak tantalus with crib board and compartments for glasses and playing cards. Circa 1900 TAN016 |
