Betjemann's Tantalus #60978

This magnificent piece is called "The Betjemann patent Tantalus". As the name indicates, it was manufactured by Betjemann prior to 1900. The "Tantalus" is an apparatus for locking decanters of drink away from the servants. The Tantalus is considered to be the most popular item manufactured by Betjemann. Interestingly, the concept of the Tantalus is said to have come from son John Betjemann's literary work "Diary of a Nobody". The Betjemann firm was a provider of very high-end craftsmanship that catered to the likes of Asprey’s, and Harrod’s in London. This example is made of wood with a locking metal top. The metal top was made by "Harrods Manufacturing Silversmiths, Electroplaters & Cutlers, London". It is probably brass with a patina on top. The base is a lovely mahogany colored wood with fine grain. It has two individual boxes for keeping the decanters separated. The decanters and stoppers are original to the set. The decanters are hand blown, with the base then ground to smooth. The stoppers are multi-faceted. The decanters and stoppers are each numbered "2" and "3". This piece is in excellent condition, with only a couple very small fleabites in the glass, on the lip of one decanter, and where the metal top probably rubbed against the stoppers when the apparatus was opened or closed. This Tantalus measures 11" long, 6 1/8" wide and is 13" tall (to the top of the handle). It is marked (see photos) and the number 60978 appears on the apparatus. It also has the original working lock and key.