magnificent miniature perfume tantalus by betjemann's london with fern engraving c1880

Description

A stunning and highly decorative example of a miniature Tantalus created for the secure storage of perfumes; as usable today for storing lotions, oils and scents or equally could be used as individual guest decanters filled with a selection of tipples.
Each bottle measures 5 1/4" tall to the top of the stopper. The bottles are made from top-notch crystal with intricate and deep hand-cutting in the ever popular hobnail design ... all in excellent condition with a couple of minor fleabites on high points, insignificant and mentioned purely for accuracy. The heavy cut stoppers reflect the light like large diamonds.
The polished brass frame is made by the quality manufacturer Betjemann's and is marked Betjemann's Patent, London and "The Tantalus". The front also has an engraved plaque for the fine retailer / silversmith "Goldsmiths Company, 12 Regent St. London".
What makes this gem the star attraction is the beautifully engraved frame, with an all-over Fern decoration, very British and very Victorian. The bottles sit it the original silk and velvet lined base.
The Tantalus comes with a working key (with a push and turn action) releasing the top bar to moved and allowing the bottles to be removed. These Tantalus were originally created to safely store expensive contents from the household staff. This one dates to around 1880.
Excellent condition with a footprint measuring 9 1/4" x 4 1/4" x 8 3/4" tall to top of handle.
Item ID: 34167
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