For the dipsomaniac who fancies the finer things in life . . . a tantalus: a decorative case or box that holds cut-glass decanters. It is usually for two or three decanters, but sometimes can be large enough to hold up to six. Some even occupy room for crystal cordials for a convenient nightcap.
They were very fashionable from the mid-nineteenth century until the beginning of the twentieth and used in many of the grandest houses.
The name "Tantalus" comes from the word "tantalize". They are lockable not allowing anyone except for the one who has access to the key. The tantalus would store the owner's finest brandy and other whiskey from the eager attention of their butler, who might once in a while treat himself to a little swizzle or two after the owner has retired to bed.
In June of this year, Cowan's in Ohio sold this Continental gilt bronze and beveled glass tantalus for $1,725.
J'adore l'alcohol . . . a fine French inlaid burlwood tantalus. It has brass, copper and silver inlays and opens to reveal a brass-mounted tray with four engraved bottles and eight cordials. C'est magnifique!
Charlton Hall Galleries sold this one is September for $1,955.
This George III mahogany tantalus chest opens to an interior compartment that is fitted with a stemware caddy and two cut glass decanters. It went up for auction this month at New Orleans Auctions for an estimate of $ 2,500 - $ 4,000, but failed to sell. Blimey!
Neal Auction Company sold this English oak for $780 in October 2007. Circa 1890, it has a lock and key safely securing three square crystal decanters.
Freeman's in Philadelphia sold this Napolean III tantalus in December 2006 for a mere $478. Barely over its lowest estimate, it has boulle and tortoiseshell with gilt bronze mounts.
For the thirsty bookworm, a simple raise of a paddle and this could have been yours for $272.
