Lock Identification

[Biff]

I was looking around in my basement for locks when I came across this beauty on an old desk. Now, I was wondering if anyone has a clue to what it is and how to open it

[Varjeal]

I know one day I'm going to get caught commenting on something I've never seen before, but for all intents and purposes this looks like an old fashioned warded lock.

These are fairly simple to open. You can either make yourself a skeleton key, or just a fairly sturdy hook pick, then reach far back into the lock with it and turn until it opens.

Doesn't get much easier than that.

[Chucklz]

It also may be a Lever lock, ala Chubb. Its hard to tell from the picture, but I know I would be extremely nervous about messing around near such lovely mahogany. Try looking inside the drawer? and looking for any kind of manufacurers marking on the lock. Or if you got a 'scope take a peek inside for all of us. Good luck!