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Antique French Burr Walnut Ebonized Tantalus Cave a Liqueur, 19th Century

$3,345.04List Priceper set

About the Item

This is an exquisite antique French burr-walnut and ebonized cave a liqueur, or tantalus, circa 1860 in date. The cave a liqueur features a burr walnut and ebonized case with glass panels and an 'up and over' lid enclosing a gilt bronze frame containing sixteen small glasses and four decanters with stoppers. The glasses and decanters are beautifully engraved with foliate decoration. It is an absolutely superb set which is sure to attract a lot of attention. Condition: In really excellent condition with no damage, please see photos for confirmation. Dimensions in cm: Height 28 x width 35 x depth 27 Dimensions in inches: Height 11.0 x width 13.8 x depth 10.6 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. 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 1800s saw our Victorian predecessors apply the King’s name to the lockable decanter.

Dimensions:
Height: 11.03 in (28 cm)Width: 13.78 in (35 cm)Depth: 10.63 in (27 cm)
Sold As:
Set of 21
Materials and Techniques:
Bronze,Glass,Walnut,Ebonized,Gilt
Place of Origin:
France
Period:
1860-1869
Date of Manufacture:
circa 1860
Condition:
Seller Location:
London, GB
Reference Number:
Seller: 091671stDibs: LU950612221713

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