18th Century Carved Boarded Oak Desk Box

This is a large early 18th century antique boarded oak desk box or bible box with sloping lid, with scrolled carving to the front surrounded by an inlaid band of holly, bog oak and fruitwood, and carving to each end. This large box is absolutely beautiful. The colour and patina of the oak is lovely, and the carving to the front and sides is well executed. The band of inlaid timber on the front panel consist of holly, bog oak, and (we think) a fruitwood. The central metal lock plate and clasp appear to be original, but there is no key. The hinges are old replacements. Internally there is a candle tray on the right hand side. This could have been a bible box, though is maybe a little large for that, so I think it more likely it was a desk box or table box for keeping documents in.