Georgian Housemaid’s Box

A simply made mahogany box with an unusual catch. English circa 1800

When the lid is placed on the box and the catch slid across it can be carried by the top handle.

When a hand is in the handle it keeps the catch in place.

Height 31 cm Base 21 cm square

A few knocks and losses to edges, but overall sound.

Although I can’t find another example, the use of good mahogany but the simple functional form make me think for use by a housemaid or similar.