metal

This is an interestimg piece. I'm not sure whether to call it a table or a trunk. It is flat on the top when closed but it does open & has ample storage space inside. It has 3 rows of tacks- appx. 1/4" apart- 1 on the lid & 2 on the main body. Each corner is a carved elephant head and the front legs of the elephant  extend down to make the legs of the table. The trunks curl upward and have a metal piece the legnth of the trunk attached. It appears each head is removable but I have refrained from doing that. The hasp looks as if it may have been altered- I believe to at one time gain access, but it is the original piece. The heads all appear to be the same but because they are hand made there are subtle or slight differences. It has metal handles at each end. It is made of an unidentified light or blond wood. It is somewhat heavy. There is no material or liner on the inside storage area. The heads, trunks & legs appear to be carved in sections as opposed to one entire piece.

Any info as to value, history or origin would be most welcomed & appreciated.