Calamander and Silver Tantalus by Betjemann

Description

A calamander and sterling silver tantalus by George Betjemann & Sons, hallmarked for London 1903 and retaining its original pair of cut glass decanters. Of rectangular form, the tantalus is veneered in richly figured calamander and fitted with sterling silver mounts throughout.

The body stands upon a chamfered plinth base and houses two square section decanters within fitted divisions. Each corner is mounted with sterling silver scrollwork brackets, hallmarked for George Betjemann & Sons with the London assay mark and date letter H for 1903.

The upper locking frame incorporates an integral carrying handle and pivots to secure the decanters in place. One side is stamped “Betjemann’s Patent 49815 London” whilst the opposing side is stamped “The Tantalus” beneath a crown. When released, the locking frame reveals the retailer’s plaque for Mappin & Webb, 158 to 162 Oxford Street W.

The locking mechanism operates through a Bramah lock, released by inserting the key and turning through a full rotation to disengage the retaining frame. The tantalus remains complete with its original pair of quilt cut glass decanters, matching faceted stoppers, functioning Bramah lock and tasselled key.

View the full Tantalus Collection.

Measurements

32 High x 29.5 wide x 15.5cm Deep (12.6 x 11.6 x 6.1 inches)

What is Calamander? 

Calamander is a rare exotic hardwood traditionally associated with Sri Lanka, recognised for its rich brown colouring and dramatic black striping. Closely related to Coromandel and Macassar ebony, it is prized for its dense grain, durability and natural lustre.

During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, calamander was widely used in fine furniture and luxury veneered objects. Due to extensive historical logging, original calamander timber is now extremely scarce, making surviving antique examples highly desirable to collectors.

For further information see our Woods Encyclopaedia on Calamander Wood.

Who are Mappin & Webb?

was founded in 1775 by Jonathan Mappin who opened a silver workshop in Sheffield over the years Mappin & Webb gained worldwide recognition for their quality silverware and jewellery which is still standing today. They hold Royal Warrants and their master craftsmen also serve as Crown Jewellers, the custodian of the British Crown Jewels responsible for preparing them for the State Opening of Parliament and other state occasions.

For further information see our Makers and Retailers profile on Mappin & Webb.

Who are Bramah?

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.

For further information see our Makers and Retailers profile on Bramah.

Why Buy from Mark Goodger Antiques?

With over thirty five years of specialist experience, Mark Goodger Antiques is recognised internationally as a leading authority in antique boxes and related works of art. Every item offered has been personally selected by Mark, whose knowledge and judgement are trusted by collectors, institutions, museums, interior designers, and fellow dealers worldwide.

Every purchase is supplied with a full supporting package for clarity and reassurance. This includes a Certificate of Authenticity, a detailed condition and care guide specific to your item, our most recent catalogue, and a separate invoice suitable for insurance and valuation purposes. Each piece is carefully examined prior to sale to ensure accuracy of description and quality.

Your purchase is fully insured during transit and protected by our straightforward money back guarantee, allowing you to buy with complete confidence. We pride ourselves on transparency, expertise, and long term relationships with our clients, many of whom return to us repeatedly over decades.

When you buy from Mark Goodger Antiques, you are purchasing from a specialist family business built on knowledge, trust, and an unrivalled focus on antique boxes.

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