Art Deco Tantalus by Hukin & Heath

Description

An Art Deco tantalus by Hukin & Heath dating to circa 1925.

The silver plated frame is designed to secure two quilt cut pineapple shaped decanters and is fitted with a loop handle which pivots upwards once unlocked, releasing both decanters from the frame. The underside is stamped Hukin & Heath (H&H) together with the model number 1500 and “Patent Applied For.”

The working lock and key release the hinged frame, allowing access to the pair of matching decanters. Each decanter is cut in a quilted pineapple pattern and finished with a faceted stopper, complementing the clean lines and functional design of the Art Deco period.

View the full Tantalus Collection.

Measurements

24cm High x 21cm Wide x 8.5cm Deep (9.45 x 8.27 x 3.35 Inches)

Who were Hukin & Heath?

Hukin & Heath were Birmingham silversmiths established in 1855, known for producing both sterling silver and electroplated wares. The firm became widely recognised for its collaboration with Dr Christopher Dresser, whose designs introduced a more modern approach to decorative metalwork in the late 19th century.

Working from Birmingham with showrooms in London, they produced a wide range of domestic silver, including tableware, tea services, and decorative objects. The firm continued into the 20th century, becoming Hukin & Heath Ltd in 1904, and remained active until its closure in 1953.

For further information see our Makers and Retailers page on Hukin and Heath.

What was the Art Deco period?

The Art Deco period developed during the 1920s and 1930s as a decorative movement shaped by modern industry and changing taste. The name derives from the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, which marked a decisive move away from the flowing lines of Art Nouveau toward stronger geometry and defined structure.

Art Deco design is recognised for symmetry, stepped profiles and controlled surface detail. Natural subjects such as birds and animals were rendered in simplified, stylised form rather than naturalistic interpretation. Glass, chrome, silver plate, lacquer and contrasting veneers were commonly used to emphasise clarity of outline and finish.

What is Silver Plate?

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.

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Additional information