Appears to be refinished, but sometime ago. Back edge of the hinged lid has a veneer repair the full length, this also radiates to one side of the right-hand corner, this appears to be a repair from where the back hinge edge of the lid has separated at some point in the past. Interior tray is original. The red valet has recently been renewed. Evidence of the box originally having carrying handles to both sides, these are now absent and the holes have been refilled. General scuffs and scratches as expected with age.

On closer inspection this appears to be an Anglo-Chinese made writing box. Constructed in the solid and showing movement shrinkage separation and shifts in the joinery which is often the case when constructed in the solid from highly figured and possible unseasoned timber. All brass hardware except for the escutcheon plate is period early mid-19th century. Some additional ebonized polished has been applied to the ebonized stringing detail. The timber base of the box shows good genuine wear as does the external surfaces, but the inside appears to be quite sharp and pristine. This may be some later work or the signs of very little use. An interesting and unusual box.