This writing box could have possibly been a sailors stationery box. Made 150 years ago completely with whale bone & skin, it is covered in whale leather and features bottles for ink, holders for paper. It folds out and offers a slanted writing surface. The box features a Brahma lock, which tells me the writing box was made between 1748-1814. In very good condition. Made in London, England. Box was purchased in the 1990's from an auction held in Rhinebeck, NYin conjuction with Christie's.