Musical decanters, often referred to as liquor music boxes, gained popularity in the mid-20th century as decorative and functional barware. These items typically featured a glass decanter, often with an hourglass or other decorative shape, housed within a metal frame. When the decanter was lifted or tilted, a small music box mechanism would play a tune, commonly "How Dry I Am" or other popular melodies of the era. They were designed to add a touch of novelty and entertainment to home bars and entertaining spaces.