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CANVASES, CARATS AND CURIOSITIES

A Guide to Antique Mixology

During these times of isolation, what better activity is there than hunkering down with your loved ones, preparing a delicious meal and mixing and enjoying your favorite cocktails? Whether you’re a brandy drinker, tequila fan, or simply enjoy a glass of wine after a long day, we have you covered. At M.S. Rau, we have acquired a unique selection of curated culinary antiques that will turn your home into your favorite cocktail bar. Read on to learn more about the pieces, as well as some of our favorite cocktail recipes!
 

 

Sterling Silver Cocktail Shaker by Cartier

 

30-9354 Sterling Silver Cocktail Shaker by Cartier

 

 
It is necessary for any aspiring mixologist to have a cocktail shaker. This specific piece is certainly the best of the best, as it is made by the famed French house, Cartier. Dating back to around 1930, this shaker is both a unique and nostalgic example of the glamorous days of the “golden age” of the cocktail. The sleek Cartier Art-Deco design features a screw-on top with a spout and handle to provide a smooth pour. It is sure to impress!
 

 

Monoplane Portable Bar Cocktail Shaker

 

31-0315 Monoplane Portable Bar Cocktail Shaker

 

 
If you are looking for a more whimsical option, this portable antique bar cocktail shaker is the one for you! Taking the form of a monoplane, this silverplate set features everything necessary to a create a delicious libation. It includes a shaker and strainer, a large inner flask, two “wing” hip flasks, four gilt-lined shot glasses, a spoon, an olive fork, a corkscrew and a funnel. It is a fabulous decoration and highly functional for your cocktail hour!
 
 If you’re looking to try something new, we have included some of our favorite recipes that may be used in either one of these antique cocktail shakers.
 
French Martini
  • 2 ounces of vodka
  • 1 ounce of chambord liqueur or Creme de cassis
  • 1 ounce pineapple juice
  • Lemon twist for garnish
 
Looking for something strong but refreshing? This modern twist on the martini is the perfect refreshment. Just add all of the ingredients with some ice to one of our shakers and shake vigorously. Pour into a martini glass and garnish with a lemon twist.
 
Bourbon Smash
  • 2 ounces of bourbon
  • 1 lemon half
  • 3/4 ounces of simple syrup
  • Several mint leaves
 
This twist on the classic whiskey sour can also be considered a citrusy variation of the mint julep. Refreshing and a bit tangy, you can also add fruits to your muddle such as peach or raspberry! Simply muddle the lemon, syrup and mint in the cocktail shaker, and then add ice and bourbon before giving the mixture a hardy shake. Garnish with any remaining mint or fruit of choice!
 
Baccarat Rouge
  • 2 ounces of tequila
  • 1 ounce of passion fruit juice
  • 1/4 ounce allspice dram
  • 1/4 ounce lime juice
  • 1/4 ounce Cardamarao Amaro
 
This velvety cocktail adds a fruity and sweet-and-spicy flavor to your drink. Simply add all of the ingredients to one of our shakers with ice, shake vigorously, and pour!
 

 

Sterling Silver and Glass Decanter

 

31-0285 Sterling Silver and Glass Decanter

 

 
 For the wine drinkers, this elegant Art-Nouveau-style antique glass decanter would be an exceptional addition to any bar. Featuring an etched floral design that covers the graceful silhouette, this piece is topped with a rounded stopper crafted from sterling silver. Designed with beauty and practicality in mind, this decanter would be a stunning decoration as well as a useful aerator for your beverage.
 

 

Christofle Silverplate Wine Trolley

 

30-7517 Christofle Silverplate Wine Trolley

 

 
 If you’re looking for a piece with some flair, this antique silver piece crafted by Christofle would certainly wow your guests. Since the 1830’s, this French firm has been renowned for their silver and plated luxury wares. This wine trolley is no exception. Adorned with a grapevine motif, this 19th-century silver-over-bronze trolley holds wine at an angle for optimal aeration. The wheels allow easy access to all dinner guests, as it may be “rolled along” and poured without disturbing the sediment at the bottom of the bottle.
 

 

Baccarat Crystal Cave à Liqueur

 

30-6306 Baccarat Crystal Cave à Liqueur

 

 
 Baccarat designed the most luxurious crystal and glass pieces, often commissioned by royals. This is most certainly showcased in this prized Cave á Liqueur. The stunning Napoléon III period piece is crafted in a circular form etched with a delicate grapevine motif and framed by extraordinary doré bronze. Upon lifting the lid, the inside reveals four etched crystal liqueur decanters and 16 etched cordial glasses. The interior pieces are held aloft on a mirrored platform and removable stand of doré bronze.
 

 

William IV Lidded Brandy Warmer by Richard Sibley

 

29-6145 William IV Lidded Brandy Warmer by Richard Sibley

 

 
For the brandy lovers, a warmer can be used to release the different flavors and aromas of the fine spirit. This William IV-period silver pot is understated in it’s elegance. To find an item made by the highly respected English Silversmith Richard Sibley is quite extraordinary. This antique silver piece features a turned, ebonized handle that provides insulation from the heat so you may take your brandy straight from the stove to your glass!
 
 If you’re looking for a little something extra with your brandy, read on to discover our favorite warm and delicious beverages that may be executed in our brandy warmer.
 
Apple Jack Hot Toddy Recipe
  • 1 cup of water or tea
  • 1 tablespoons of honey
  • 1/2 ounce of fresh lemon
  • 1 1/2 ounce of apple brandy
  • 3 inch cinnamon stick for garnish
 
This recipe is great way to use our brandy warmer to make the classic beverage for a cold and windy night. Hot Toddy’s are traditionally crafted before turning in for the night, or even to help soothe the effects of the common cold. This recipe has a healthy mixture of Vitamin C to boost your health, honey to soothe, and alcohol to numb!
 

Hot Milk Punch Recipe
  • 1 ounce of dark rum
  • 1 ounce of brandy
  • 1 teaspoon of sugar
  • 1 cup of milk
  • Nutmeg to garnis
 
There’s nothing like warm milk to lull you into tranquility, because that’s what we all need right now. Just warm the rum, brandy, and sugar in our warmer until the sugar is dissolved. Pour into a glass with heated milk, and garnish with a few shavings of nutmeg. Enjoy and relax!
 
There are numerous options for mixing and enjoying an alcoholic beverage. With our items and recipes, you may execute these in the comfort of your home while enjoying beautiful and incredibly rare culinary antiques. What is better than luxury items paired with your favorite beverage with a kick?

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