Featured An interesting wood box --- with hidden section

https://www.instagram.com/barterbuy_antiques/?hl=fr

here's another...2nd row......this guy ought to know !!!!!

 

https://www.ebay.ca/itm/183724288959

got me another....... good call Johnny!

 

https://www.spicersauctioneers.com/...vintage-home-clocks-jewellery-watches-lot-50/

And the fun never stops !!!
Cigar & cigarette................ good call Komo !!!

 

no one mentions hidden compartment......but the lower drawer controls the sliding top......thus the key placement..!! Good call Komo !!!!!

 

and with the handle on the top.......a traveling humidor !!!

 

That was fun !!
Thank you @jingyel ...

 

Good call Komo !!!

 

Didn't read through. Should have.

 

Good catch. ' It matches what I found.
The top of the box slides open when the lower drawer is opened.to open also. The top section of the box has a divided interior with the lower drawer having a fitted center compartment with an open compartment on each side. The brass ormolu at the corners of the top varies from that on the drawer and lower handle but each appears to be original to the box. The box has its original locking mechanism and has a key. '

 

Thank you all for the efforts to unlock the puzzle.

 

The "hidden" space may just house the mechanism that links the drawer and lid.

 

Bluumz started the ball rolling in that direction.

 

Japanese tobako bon (or ban), which just translates to tobacco box I believe. I have one but it’s broken .

edit: always possible this one wasn’t made in Japan but it’s in the Japanese style of making a tobacco box.

 

Thanks for noticing!
I had thought it was for cigars and/or cigarettes, hence my questions/suggestion.
But I had absolutely no ideas about the "secret" compartment or mechanism.

 

Good call @bluumz ........... sorry for the oversight !!