Your box has been French polished; using the same techniques and materials that were available to the late Georgian and Victorian craftsmen. This shellac based polish is considered by many to be the most beautiful way to finish highly figured woods; but care should be taken to preserve the finish.

Ensure that your box doesn't come into contact with water or alcohol, as both can impair the finish; the former can leave white marks and the latter will dissolve the polish if allowed to remain. Should your box become splashed with either; the area should be wiped dry immediately with a clean, dry cloth. It is also worth placing your box away from where aerosols will be used; particularly hairspray as this can adhere to the surface attracting dust and prematurely aging the appearance of the finish.

To prevent fading I highly recommend your box is kept away from direct sunlight, which over time will result in an undesirable mellowing of colour. Direct heat sources and damp areas should also be avoided; as both could have adverse effects on the structure and the finish.

Other than a light dusting; with a clean dry duster or soft cotton cloth, your box shouldn't require any further effort, in years to come it may benefit from a light waxing with a silicon free furniture polish.