Tantalus by George Betjemann in Calamander

Description

The Tantalus by George Betjemann in Calamander is a late Victorian example veneered in exotic calamander wood and fitted with silver mounted locking mechanisms and three cut glass decanters.

The tantalus is of elongated rectangular form with a chamfered plinth base and square division housing for the decanter bottles. The exterior is beautifully veneered in richly figured calamander and mounted to each corner with sterling silver scrollwork brackets. The silver mounts are hallmarked for George Betjemann & Sons, London, with the date letter “F” for 1901.

The upper silvered locking bracket incorporates an integral carrying handle and pivots to secure the decanters in place. One side is stamped “Betjemann Patent 48419 London” while the opposing side is stamped “The Tantalus”.

The locking mechanism operates by inserting the key and applying pressure while turning clockwise through a full rotation, allowing the escutcheon disc to depress and release the locking frame. The front retains the original retailer’s plaque for Mappin & Webb, Sheffield, “158 to 162 Oxford Street & Manson House Buildings London”.

The tantalus retains its original set of three hobnail cut glass decanters complete with faceted glass stoppers. The piece also retains its fully functioning Bramah lock and tasselled key.

The George Betjemann tantalus dates to 1901 during the final years of the Victorian period and the beginning of the Edwardian era.

View the full Tantalus Collection.

Measurements

32cm High x 39cm Wide x 15cm Deep (12.6 x 15.35 x 5.9 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.

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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