Antique Tantalus

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Posted by sparkyman11
14 years ago
AI Appraisal
💬 4 Comments 🗣️ Discuss with Community
Description

This item I have had for 15 years, the botle im showing is a sample, it actually holds a larger width for a bottle. The lock works and it sems to have gold painying over pewter, but im not sure. The person I got it from gave me a little history, the Grandfather passed away and he had this for years, they didnt like it, so the put in the yard sale. I thought it to be an amazing piece, but dont know much about it, please help!!!!!!!!!
Category General Antiques and Collectibles
Medium Possibly pewter
Distinguishing marks None that I can find
Condition Excellent
Size and dimensions of this item 14 inches wide 13 inches tall
Date Period early 1900s or earlier
Weight 5lbs
History Found at yard sale 15 years ago, was told it belonged to the grandfather and they didnt like it
eBay Auction Link
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Submitted by missymma

This looks more like a wall sconce with candle snuffer. I have something like this myself. Probably mid to late 1800's. These were used for lighting, and they were attached to walls and a candle would be placed in them. The snuffer, which is on the top of your bottle was used to of course, put the candle out. there seems to be a key in your item, which tells me that this probably belonged to a wealthy family, and was used as an outdoor porch light. The key would lock everything together, deterring thieves from stealing the precious metal holder. This probably is gold plated judging by the key lock design. Although I can't give you an exact value, I can tell you that mine is wood and iron, no key, and not near as old, and the one I have is worth $1,000-$1,500 at auction.

Thank you so much for the info. It doesn't seem to go on the wall, there is no way to attach it to a wall. It has a base which stands up flat. I am not sure what it is made of, could be iron (even though it's kinda light for iron). Any ideas on where to search? And under what listing I should search? Is this possibly one of a kind item? Would an antique store have more information? I am very new at this. Thanks for all your help.

Submitted by superking

 What you have here is called a tantalus, (Because it's designed to tantalize), originally it would probably have been used in a relatively large house with servants, and would allow the liquor to be kept on display, while keeping it safe from anyone but it's owner. I have no idea what yours would be worth, but it is a very cool item!

Thank you so much, its been an ordeal to find anyone who might be able to date it, or tell me what its made of. I went to 7 Antique dealers today, the first offer I got was for $35, lol. The last place told me that its so rare, that its impossible to  price, If anyone can give me more info, it would be appreciated.
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