Grain figuring does not come any better then this.
It is box in with broad bands of Kingwood, the veneers are perfect.
The box is made from exotic and very expensive Rosewood with it's decorative graining and attractive rich colouring. The top is beautifully inlaid with pewter stringing including a central plaque acting as a cartouche, which could be engraved if desired.
It has two ink wells very much of that age.
I would think the lock is a replacement, it is French and the box is English.
Measures: 14x9x5 ins ; 35 cm x 22,5 cm x 12,5 cm
Weighs: 3kg