Superb, RARE antique c. 1800-1820 Georgian era "ship captain's" liquor box, tantalus or cave à liqueur, a unique bombe shaped 10.5" tall chest with seashell marquetry inlay, working lock & key and four original gold enamel blown glass decanters & tray! A fine late Georgian period mahogany liquor box, of distinctive curved façade and finely executed joinery, likely made for maritime or gentleman’s table use. The square case with shaped top and fitted interior houses four original hand-blown glass decanters, each adorned with gilt enamel decoration typical of early 19th-century European glassware. Mouth blown, pontil marks are evident on the bases and all bottoms and stoppers are numbered in gold enamel. The lid lifts to reveal a removable serving tray finished with complementary gilt accents.
The curved lid front features a shell marquetry inlay medallion, a motif often associated with naval commissions or clientele and and the piece retains the warm patina characteristic of aged mahogany. Fitted with brass hinges and original faux drawer pulls, the box reflects high craftsmanship consistent with Georgian barware of this era. It almost has the appearance of a miniature bombe style chest of drawers, similar to salesman's samples or eboniste's works.
Overall condition is very good, with age-appropriate wear to wood surfaces and intact glassware though it is missing any glasses or cordials, there is some wear to the enamel and one of the decanters has seen better days. When found, one decanter had a bottom corner completely broken and missing, we filled with epoxy to preserve the shape and help maintain the integrity (or it would otherwise have continued to crack and be lost forever. Possibly usable but we'd still suggest saving that one just for visuals. There are a few veneer splits (visible in images) but no major damage or losses and one rear foot has been re-glued (see image). Working lock & key. A rare and attractive example of Georgian decanter cabinetry, reflecting both functional use and decorative refinement. See pictures for all measurements.
