RARE Antique, ca 1800's, London, Oak & Brass Tantalus w/Decanters & Original Key

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RARE Antique, ca 1800's, London, Oak & Brass Tantalus w/Decanters & Original Key:
$1499.25

This elegant antique tantalus is beautifully crafted of sturdy English oak with gleaming brass fittings. Crafted and marked London. The exquisite crystal decanters are sure to impress with their gorgeous cane-pattern cutwork and shapely stoppers, original to the set. Unfortunately 1 of the decanters is broken from trying to remove it without the lid fully opened. The stopper is included. Standing in front of the mirrored back panel, light catching the sparkling crystal decanters will richly reflect the warm hues or crystal clear tones of the spirits stored inside. Only with the split-hinge lid fully opened are the decanters able to be removed. Original key is included made by Bramah, the oldest and most respected lock manufacturer in London. Directly in front of the decanters is a box with a split-hinge lid that opens from the center to reveal storage space for cigars and cigarettes. A tiny "secret" push button flush with the top surface of the frame of the Tobacco chest releases the hidden game chest drawer that contains 2 decks of vintage State Express Cigarettes linen grained playing cards & 2 brass gaming bowls/trays.

Perfect for storing and safe-keeping your favorite cognac, whisky or spirits, as well as all the supplies for a memorable game night, this rare and stately tantalus will take pride of place on any home bar. In remarkably good condition however there is a piece of trim missing on the side of the tantalist, see pic #20, & as mentioned above 1 of the decanters is broken. The decanters measure approximately 9 1/2" tall 3 1/2" wide. The tantalist measures approximately 13" tall x 14" wide x 11" deep and the total weight is approximately 22 pounds.

A bit of history:

The tantalus is named for Tantalus, one of the many sons of the Greek god Zeus. Tantalus was a bad boy, for when he was invited to dine with Zeus on Mount Olympus, he smuggled out some ambrosia which he took home and served at his own banquet. The gods were not pleased and in punishment for this offense, Tantalus was eventually made to stand in a pool of water beneath a tree heavy with fruit. If he attempted to reach for the fruit, the branches lifted high above him. If he attempted to drink the water, it receded away from him before he could take a sip. Thus, though surrounded by plenty, he was left both hungry and thirsty. The punishment of Tantalus is the origin of the word "tantalize".

Please examine and enlarge photos prior to placing your offer

Shipping, including insurance, for this item will be FedEx Ground and will be shipped 1 business day after payment received Payment would be appreciated within 2 days of your winning offer

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