I recently purchased a student writing box in upstate New York. There are no maker’s marks that I can see. It looks to be very old as it is well worn from years of use and storage and it has brass hinges and a brass lock.

Upon researching the box on the internet, the only thing I found is that it has the exact same dimensions and carpentry work as one listed on eBay along with the same compartments. The only difference is that the box I purchased has a natural finish along with a yellow rhombus (diamond) painted on the top. Other than that they are one and the same.

The box opens to a slight angle for writing and has two compartments on each side of the opened box for storage of paper and letters. The compartments themselves have wooden lids that have been laid with purple silk for the writing surface.

There are three additional compartments for storing writing utensils.

The dimensions of the box when closed are 3.5 inches high, 11.5 inches long, and 8 inches wide.

All the components are linked with brass hinges.

There is also a brass lock and keyhole at the front.

My guess is, from the fact that an exact one was listed for sale on eBay, the box was mass produced and may not be very old. Perhaps it dates from the 1920s.

Can someone please give me thoughts on who may have manufactured the box and when it may have been manufactured?

If not, can anyone direct me to any sources that would give me a history of such boxes?

The value is secondary. The box itself and its possible history are of immense interest to me.

Thanks !