Late 19th Century French Leather Book Liquor Tantalus

Late nineteenth-century French book-form liquor tantalus constructed from four stacked, leather-bound volumes over a hinged wooden case. The trompe l'oeil exterior features antique leather bindings with gilt-tooled spines bearing titles by Molière, Florian, and Bourdaloue, bordered by simulated paper page blocks.

A heavy brass hinge and brass folding support arm secure the lid. The upper two volumes lift to reveal a red-lined compartment fitted with a matching leather collar cut out for glassware. The interior retains its original clear glass service, comprising a rectangular decanter with a faceted gilt stopper and four cylindrical shot glasses finished with gilded rims. Marked "Made in France."

The piece is in good antique condition. The leather exhibits expected rubbing and surface wear along the spine extremities and corners, with visible wear to the top right edge of the upper board. The brass stay operates smoothly, and the glassware is free of chips or cracks with light wear to the gilt bands.

This set includes:
1 book-form tantalus box (8" wide x 4" deep x 5.25" high)
1 glass decanter with stopper (4.5" high x 2" wide)
4 gilt-rimmed cordial glasses (2.5" high x 1.5" wide)