19th Century Victorian Library Tantalus Crafted from Four Hollowed Antique Books with Original Gilt-Decorated Decanter & Four Cordial Glasses

19th Century Victorian Library Tantalus Crafted from Four Hollowed Antique Books with Original Gilt-Decorated Decanter & Four Cordial Glasses

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$1,095.00
$1,095.00
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19th Century Victorian Library Tantalus Crafted from Four Hollowed Antique Books with Original Gilt-Decorated Decanter & Four Cordial Glasses
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  • 19th Century Victorian Library Tantalus Crafted from Four Hollowed Antique Books with Original Gilt-Decorated Decanter & Four Cordial Glasses
  • 19th Century Victorian Library Tantalus Crafted from Four Hollowed Antique Books with Original Gilt-Decorated Decanter & Four Cordial Glasses
  • 19th Century Victorian Library Tantalus Crafted from Four Hollowed Antique Books with Original Gilt-Decorated Decanter & Four Cordial Glasses
  • 19th Century Victorian Library Tantalus Crafted from Four Hollowed Antique Books with Original Gilt-Decorated Decanter & Four Cordial Glasses
  • 19th Century Victorian Library Tantalus Crafted from Four Hollowed Antique Books with Original Gilt-Decorated Decanter & Four Cordial Glasses
  • 19th Century Victorian Library Tantalus Crafted from Four Hollowed Antique Books with Original Gilt-Decorated Decanter & Four Cordial Glasses
  • 19th Century Victorian Library Tantalus Crafted from Four Hollowed Antique Books with Original Gilt-Decorated Decanter & Four Cordial Glasses
  • 19th Century Victorian Library Tantalus Crafted from Four Hollowed Antique Books with Original Gilt-Decorated Decanter & Four Cordial Glasses
  • 19th Century Victorian Library Tantalus Crafted from Four Hollowed Antique Books with Original Gilt-Decorated Decanter & Four Cordial Glasses
  • 19th Century Victorian Library Tantalus Crafted from Four Hollowed Antique Books with Original Gilt-Decorated Decanter & Four Cordial Glasses
  • 19th Century Victorian Library Tantalus Crafted from Four Hollowed Antique Books with Original Gilt-Decorated Decanter & Four Cordial Glasses
  • 19th Century Victorian Library Tantalus Crafted from Four Hollowed Antique Books with Original Gilt-Decorated Decanter & Four Cordial Glasses
19th Century Victorian Library Tantalus Crafted from Four Hollowed Antique Books with Original Gilt-Decorated Decanter & Four Cordial Glasses

19th Century Victorian Library Tantalus Crafted from Four Hollowed Antique Books with Original Gilt-Decorated Decanter & Four Cordial Glasses

$1,095.00
$1,095.00
Description

An exceptional and highly unusual 19th-century Victorian library tantalus, ingeniously concealed within four authentic hollowed antique leather-bound books, preserving the illusion of a distinguished gentleman’s library while discreetly housing a complete spirits service.

Unlike later book-form novelty boxes, this remarkable example was created using genuine antiquarian volumes, each carefully hollowed by hand to form a fitted interior. The books retain their richly tooled leather bindings, raised bands, gilt decoration, marbled boards, and aged page edges, lending the piece an authenticity and character that only centuries of natural patina can provide.

Opening the upper volume reveals its original fitted interior containing a beautifully decorated square glass decanter with its matching faceted stopper, accompanied by four coordinating gilt-rimmed cordial glasses. The interior is lined with decorative paper and fitted compartments, creating an elegant hidden bar intended to surprise guests while remaining virtually indistinguishable from a stack of scholarly books when closed.

Objects of this nature were prized in Victorian libraries, studies, and gentlemen’s clubs, where concealed liquor services combined practicality, craftsmanship, and a sense of theatrical refinement.

Details:

  • Victorian period, 19th century
  • Constructed from four genuine hollowed antique leather-bound books
  • Hidden library tantalus / concealed liquor cabinet
  • Original square gilt-decorated glass decanter
  • Matching faceted stopper
  • Four matching gilt-rimmed cordial glasses
  • Rich gilt-tooled leather bindings with raised bands
  • Marbled paper boards and page edges
  • Decorative paper-lined interior with fitted compartments
  • A remarkable decorative object for libraries, studies, bars, or collectors of unusual Victorian furnishings


This extraordinary piece beautifully bridges the worlds of antiquarian books, decorative arts, and Victorian entertaining. Whether displayed in a private library or on a bar, it serves as both a sophisticated conversation piece and a fascinating example of 19th-century craftsmanship and ingenuity.


Condition: Overall good antique condition consistent with age. The bindings exhibit expected wear, rubbing, scattered losses to the gilt tooling, and age-related imperfections that enhance the authenticity and historic character of the piece. The glass components display light wear consistent with careful use and age. Please review all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description.

 

Binding Purchase & Condition Notice:

This item is antique/vintage and sold as-is. Age-related wear, restoration, and imperfections are expected and form part of its character.

All descriptions and attributions are opinions and may differ among experts. Any appraisal or valuation references are provided for context only and are not guarantees of value.

By purchasing, you confirm that you have reviewed all images and information and are making an independent buying decision.

All sales are final. This transaction is binding, and you agree not to dispute the purchase or initiate a chargeback based on condition, attribution, or valuation.


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