Antique Black Forest Tantalus Decanter Set C1800s

We are pleased to offer a recent find: a quite large and impressive antique Black Forest tantalus, dating from the 1800's. This tantalus is decorated with exquisitely carved exterior: on the top is a vignette comprised of three birds; a chick and the chick's parents. On each of the doors there is a central cartouche with a deep relief sculpture of a bird sitting on an oak branch, with leaves. The sides and back carvings are textured and adorned with decorative designs reminiscent of tooled leather. It looks just like tooled leather Amazing. Borders & edges are gadrooned. The top lifts up, which then permits the two sides to open up and display the fine crystal inside: three crystal decanters, cut in a diamond pattern and 12 cordials. Six of the cordials are part of the original set and are cut in the matching diamond pattern. Over the years, as cordials broke, or were lost, replacement cordials were added. All three decanters are part of the original set. The quality of this tantalus is superb, it's condition excellent and it is a fairly rare commodity.

Dimensions: 17-18"H, 13 1/2"W and 12"D. Condition: excellent. Apart from the replacement cordials, one can find some wear along the gadrooned edges. Otherwise the carved sculpture is in pristine condition, with a warm and inviting aged patina. The key to the tantalus is missing. This tantalus is truly achingly beautiful The sterling silver tray from 1751 is not included in the sale.