Antique Silver Tantaluses
The tantalus was designed as a way of safely storing 2 or 3 glass decanters, containing favoured household spirits such as whisky or gin. The locking mechanism, first patented in 1881 by George Betjemann, is the defining feature of a tantalus, locking the decanters away to all but the key holder, while leaving the liquor on display to ‘tantalise’ the guests and staff. Original Betjemann examples are rare to find and highly desired.
2 results
L7749 : Silver Plate Tantalus
Made Circa 1930
Made circa 1930, this stylish, Silver Plate Tantalus, is in the art deco taste, with 3 glass bottles. The tantalus measures 15.25"(38.5cm) tall, by 13"(33cm) wide, by 4.25"(11cm) deep.
£2,425
L7946 : Sterling Silver & Glass Tantalus
Made Circa 1950
Made circa 1950 by Tiffany & Co., this stylish, Sterling Silver & Glass Tantalus, features a sterling silver locking mechanism which slides upwards when unlocked to release the 2 Hawkes Crystal cut glass decanters. The tantalus measures 9.75"(24.5cm) tall, by 9"(22.5cm) wide, by 4.5"(11.5cm) deep.
£4,125