Large Tantalus Decantor from late 1800s
3 crystal bottle decanter set,with tantalus lock. All crystal in perfect condition except for one with a chip at bottom corner which is not seen. All mechanisms work and have the original key and chain. Not sure the wood, but it’s all hand engraved. There is also a piece of random newspaper from the time that is attached to the bottom. It’s ablsoliutely clean In every way. Super unique.
Got from a family I did work for who are from London. They said it’s been in there family for a long time. But they said during there move I helped with that they had no need or space for it, so I said I would take it. I have had it for about 3 years. It was very dirty and oxidized when I got it so the last few years I have maticulasey cleaned it. There is some type of crest on the very top I have not been able to discern. Perhaps you guys can figure it out.
Other
Maybe
Good afternoon, Justin,
Thank you for using Mearto for your appraisal inquiry. I can't quite make out the monogram on the handle, of what look like at least 3 and possibly 4 initials - I can make out an E and maybe a C but it gets complicated after that. I would need to see a clearer photograph of the "crest" above the words "THE TANTALUS"; it could be Betjemann's crest. It is possible this tantalus was given as a wedding present and those are the initials of the couple who got married. These are not as rare as you might think, and nearly always bring less than $500 at auction.
Based on the photographs and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
A Gothic Revival silver plated and carved oak tantalus
Mappin and Webb, marked BETJEMANN'S PATENT/ --- / LONDON
With three cut-glass square decanters
[dimensions]
CONDITION: not examined in person; appears to be in good condition. Decanters may be original to the tantalus.
PROVENANCE:acquired from a London family that had owned it for years
$200-300*
*Represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary. The following recent auction sales have been used to research the value of your tantalus:
(£90) https://www.invaluable.com/auction-lot/early-20th-century-mahogany-and-silver-plated-thre-2c6474ca29
(£300)https://www.invaluable.com/auction-lot/a-late-victorian-edwardian-mappin-webb-tantalus-fd94e7cad4
Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, and thank you again for using Mearto.
