Georgian ca. 1790 Walnut Drum-Top Decanter Tantalus with 3 Gilt Decanters
Located in Nottingham, GB
A rare and highly decorative late 18th-century Georgian drum-top tantalus or decanter box, dating to approximately 1790, constructed in richly figured walnut veneer and containing three original-looking gilded decanters together with six additional cut-glass tot glasses.
The box itself is particularly attractive, with its distinctive curved drum-top lid, tactile figured walnut veneer and elegant Georgian proportions. The front incorporates a diamond-shaped marquetry escutcheon surrounding the lock. The original key is unfortunately absent.
Two small bone or ivory-type lifting handles are positioned at the sides, while the rear of the lid features carved edging enhanced by a decorative tooth-carved border on three sides. The case stands on four feet, with brass button feet to the front and wooden feet to the rear.
Opening the lid reveals the fitted interior, which has undergone later restoration and alteration. The internal divisions are not entirely original, but have been sympathetically arranged and remain highly functional. Strong ruby-coloured ribbon stays and a patterned lining add further visual appeal.
The lower compartment currently houses three matching antique decanters, together with a separate area containing six diamond-cut tot glasses.
The decanters feature gilded decoration, original stoppers and snapped pontil marks, consistent with hand-blown glass of the period. One decanter has suffered a historic break to the neck and has been professionally restored. The remaining decanters are in good antique condition.
The six tot glasses appear to be later additions, probably 19th-century, rather than original components of the box. They are nevertheless attractive examples, with heavy bases and finely executed diamond or brilliant-style cutting, together with applied gold dot decoration.
The present internal configuration suggests that the box may originally have been designed to accommodate a larger set of decanters, possibly six, with the interior subsequently altered to accommodate the present arrangement.
The combination of the finely figured walnut case, Georgian construction, gilded decanters and later cut-glass additions makes this an exceptionally interesting travelling decanter...
Category
Late 18th Century Antique Wood Barware