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I own an oak drinks case which holds three glass decanters. It is locked by a key, which is hidden in a secret compartment. It’s a very odd contraption and I can’t find out anything about it. I’d say it was over 100 years old. Barry Mather, Oxford You have a Tantalus! Tantalus was a Greek king who, as a punishment from the gods, was made to stand in front of water and a fruit tree. Each time he tried to eat or drink, they moved away! Servants would have found their employer’s port or sherry tantalising – hence the name. The key was usually hidden in a secret drawer and they were made up until the Twenties. Most examples in good order should be insured for around £200. If you have a silver handle, then maybe £300 to £400. The presence of the three decanters (cut glass is better than moulded) and the stoppers significantly increases the value.

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