Box - Oak - File Box

Single file/card catalog drawer or card catalog drawer in solid wood, of an industrial/office or library style, probably American or European in origin, from the early to mid-20th century (c. 1900–1940). This is a robust, functional piece originally intended to organize fiche cards, index cards, documents, or recipes, with a typical library/office system from the pre-digital era. Dimensions and weight (provided):
• Width: 25 cm
• Depth (length): 43 cm
• Height: 18 cm
• Weight: 4,600 kg
The case is rectangular, parallelepiped in shape, with a medium-to-dark brown wood finish, featuring the beautiful natural grain visible (likely oak or similar quality wood, with pronounced grain and some figuring). The surface shows an aged patina, with small marks, scratches and wear consistent with age, but without major structural damage. The top is smooth and flat; the sides and front show solid construction, with joints probably in a dovetail or similar style (typical of these pieces).
The front of the drawer is flat, with an original brass (or bronze) bail handle in the classic office furniture style, shaped with a curved arm and fixed terminals by rosettes. Above the handle there is a circular keyhole lock, also in metal (brass/patinated), but without a key. The drawer slides smoothly out, revealing the interior.
Interior:
The drawer is deep and divided by a movable wooden separator/divider (sliding follower or block), which allows adjusting the space to keep cards or documents upright, regardless of quantity. At the bottom of the drawer there are circular holes (typical of library catalog systems, where a metal rod would pass through to hold the cards and prevent them from being easily removed). The interior walls show the wood in a lighter natural tone, with signs of use and some age-related dirt. There is also a small metal plate or reinforcement in the front lower area of the drawer (visible when open).
The base of the case (viewed from underneath) shows wood grain texture with faded markings/stamps (vertical or horizontal text, common in pieces from manufacturers such as Library Bureau, Weis, Globe-Wernicke, Shaw-Walker or similar; legibility is limited in the photos, but it suggests a maker’s mark or institutional origin).
Overall condition:
In good condition for its age. The wood is solid and stable; the drawer mechanism works; the brass hardware has authentic patina. Signs of normal use (scratches, small stains, wear on edges). No key present. No evident restorations or missing major parts beyond the key. Ideal both as a functional piece (organizing cards, documents, small jewelry, or even as a decorative display) and as a collectible/industrial/library chic or vintage décor item.
This piece combines practical utility with historical charm, typical of office and library furniture from the era when card systems were essential for information organization.