I believe this wall box was made to hold a pocket watch, and I believe is is quite an old one, early 19th century be my guess. The inlays on the front are bone, the brown paint original, carved wooden pins for nails I believe and it looks to me as if there is at least one small carved bone pin used (visible in a hole at the top (documented in detail photo.) I really love the way just the top half of the front slides up and off for access to the interior while completing the round frame perfectly when in place; very smart! There is a bone pin mounted to a screw inside, just concealed from view, I assume for hanging the watch. Now it might be used to hang all sorts of things to be peeped through the window, though I think this is really quite beautiful just as it is.

7" t x 3" w x 2" d and in very good condition. There is a bit of loss the far edge of the sliding piece, as documented-- not visible when in place. Very solid and sturdy and beautifully constructed.