A spirit decanter is a glass vessel with a stopper, designed for serving whisky, brandy, gin, rum and other spirits at the table or from a sideboard. Spirit decanters are commonly smaller than those for wine, and many are square in section, a shape that sits securely in a decanter box, travelling case or tantalus and makes efficient use of space.
From the late eighteenth century English and Irish glasshouses produced spirit decanters in clear lead glass, often with cut, engraved or gilt decoration, and coloured examples in blue, green and amethyst were also popular, sometimes with gilt labels naming the contents. Sets of three or four were fitted into mahogany, rosewood or oak boxes or into silver-plated frames, and silver or enamel bottle tickets were hung around the necks. Victorian and Edwardian makers produced many cut-glass examples with mushroom or faceted stoppers. Collectors check for chips to the rim and foot, interior staining or cloudiness, and whether the stopper is original, which is often indicated by a matching number scratched on stopper and neck. A well-fitted set brings handsome period character to a library or drinks table.
