Second half of 19th century, Southern Ceylon (Sri Lanka), slanted front, the exterior with porcupine quill veneers, ebony trim borders with round pattern inlay, the top lid with shaped brass escutcheon, opens to a figural and floral inlay, with two covered rectangular brush and pen compartments and two inkwells, upholstered slant front writing service in deep violet, lifts to reveal a storage area with text inlay "CEYLON / MATURA" above two rectangular drawers.

5 3/8 x 15 1/8 x 10 3/4 in.

Some scattered inlay and quill loss; some small areas of loss to wood at corners; some shrinkage cracks; later violet upholstery; no key.