Circa 1890 Three Bottle Oak Games Tantalus

Dating to the 1890's this is a superb example of an English oak combination Tantalus and games box. All original and in excellent condition, we have ensured this ready to use and display having had it properly cleaned and polished. There are three square, hobnail cut spirit/whisky decanters, all without fault and original to the box. The latter are contained in the mirrored compartment underneath the top rail and secured by the locking flaps to the front, a simple and very effective security for the liquor. The two flaps lift to expose the upper compartment (divided and partially lined in felt) as well as the concealed button to release the lower drawer, again with compartments for cards and perhaps dominoes or counters. The central compartment houses the original cribbage boards, there are four bone pegs for the boards.

The whole tantalus sports period aesthetic movement metalwork, with contrasting gold tone round studs. This is a cut above the average example of this type of tantalus. The lock is an original Bramah and is complete with its key. There is a shield to the top which is inscribed from Alice to Jack 11th May 1892, adds not only charm and history, but also provenance.

Size: The width across is 36 cm, the maximum depth is 27 cm and height is also 27 cm , the height of the front section is 16.5 cm