Description Unusual Model with Eight Fitted Glasses and Sterling Silver Mounted Decanters From our Tantalus collection, we are pleased to offer this highly unusual and substantial lockable tantalus by George Betjemann & Sons, dating to the early twentieth century, circa 1937. The tantalus is constructed in an exotic coromandel veneered case, fitted with silver plated corner mounts and a robust top carrying handle. To one side is the original Bramah locking mechanism, a hallmark of Betjemann’s patented designs, which secures the contents when engaged and releases the pivoting frame when unlocked. The ends of the case are stamped “The Tantalus, Betjemanns Patent 2149, London”. When opened, the silver plated internal framework pivots forward to reveal a fitted interior housing three cut glass decanters and an unusually generous arrangement of eight matching drinking glasses, a rarely encountered configuration. Each decanter is mounted with a sterling silver collar, hallmarked for George Betjemann & Sons and dated 1937, confirming both maker and period. The decanters are finely cut with a quilted diamond pattern, complemented by star cut bases and circular cut stoppers. They are presented alongside the glasses within a satinwood lined interior, providing both contrast and protection. This is a particularly scarce Betjemann model, combining secure locking, silver mounted decanters, and a full fitted glass service, and represents a refined example of English luxury barware from the interwar period. The Art Deco Tantalus comes complete with a fully working Bramah lock and tasselled key. Tantalus the origin traces back to the 19th century in England when a German born cabinetmaker George Betjemann patented the Tantalus model in 1881 (UK Patent 58948). Betjemann & Sons had workshops at 34–42 Pentonville Road, London from the 1830s specialising in high quality Boxes for various uses and Decanter sets including the Tantalus. The name ‘Tantalus’ is a reference to the unsatisfied temptations of the Greek mythological character Tantalus, son of Zeus. It is told that he was trapped in Tartarus, made to stand in a pool of water beneath a fruit tree with low hanging branches. The fruit would forever elude his grasp and the pool would recede before he was able to quench his thirst. The story is in reference to the lockable aspect of the Tantalus eluding anyone trying to access the decanters without the key. George Betjemann & Sons George Betjemann started as an apprentice cabinet maker from a young age working for his Father in Law. In 1848, his two sons George William Betjemann and John Betjemann joined him under apprenticeships until 1846 when George William Betjemann started his own business with his two sons. In 1859 George moved to a new premises on Pentonville road, London. This was when the business became known as ‘Betjemann & Sons’. John Betjemann was grandfather of the later famous poet laureate Sir John Betjemann. For further information see our Makers and Retailers page on George Betjemann & Sons. Bramah is London’s oldest security company. Established at 124 Piccadilly, London in 1784, and today based in Fitzrovia, London and Romford, Essex. Bramah manufactures Bramah and Rola locks for domestic and commercial applications in the U.K. and overseas. We are Marylebone and Fitzrovia’s foremost Locksmith and Burglar Alarm installer. Coromandel is a valuable wood found in India, Sri Lanka and South East Asia. It has a contrasting hazel-brown colour with black grain. It is a dense, heavy wood that is so popular it has been logged to extinction over the last few hundred years. This makes Calamander pieces even more special. For further information see our Woods encyclopaedia on Coromandel. Satinwood is found in India and Sri Lanka. It has a rich golden colour and an almost reflective sheen. Satinwood is traditionally used for high quality furniture. For further information see our Woods encyclopaedia on Satinwood. Silver Plate refers to a method of applying a thin layer of silver to a base metal such as brass. Therefore it refers to an item which is not solid silver but plated to the outer coating. With every purchase from Mark Goodger Antiques, you will receive our latest catalogue, a Certificate of Authenticity, detailed care instructions for your chosen piece and an independent invoice (for insurance purposes) will be enclosed. As well as being protected by a no-hassle, money-back policy, your piece will be entirely insured during the shipping process to ensure the safety of your item.
