Antique English Oak & Cut Glass Tantalus Set

Antique English Oak & Cut Glass Tantalus SetAn exceptional antique English oak and silver plate tantalus, fitted with two cut glass decanters and retaining its engraved presentation plaque from a York insurance office. The rich tiger grain oak frame is paired with classic grid cut bottles and faceted stoppers, creating a stately and unmistakably British bar form. The tantalus emerged in late 19th century England as a gentlemans bar accessory, designed to display fine spirits while keeping them

An exceptional antique English oak and silver plate tantalus, fitted with two cut glass decanters and retaining its engraved presentation plaque from a York insurance office. The rich tiger-grain oak frame is paired with classic grid-cut bottles and faceted stoppers, creating a stately and unmistakably British bar form.

The tantalus emerged in late 19th-century England as a gentleman’s bar accessory, designed to display fine spirits while keeping them secured under lock — a practical solution for clubs, offices, and private studies where valuable liquor needed both visibility and control. The locking bar, a defining feature of the form, swivels to release the bottles (key not present).

A handsome and historically grounded piece, equally suited for use or display, and a true nod to the rituals of traditional English entertaining.

PRODUCT INFORMATION
Era: Antique, late 1800 to early 1900s
Condition: Very Good; wear to plating, as shown in photos
Country of Origin: England
Materials: oak/crystal
Dimensions: 10" L x 5" W x 12" H
Color/Finish: clear/brown