Pierced, wood lined container

[MG]

I would be very grateful if anyone could help me to identify what this object might have been intended for and what the markings might indicate.
The wooden liner is interesting. At first I thought it was perhaps a substitute for perhaps a glass liner which may have been broken. However, it is actually very well made from some sort of hardwood; it fits perfectly and the walls are very thin. So the liner seems to have been expertly made.
The piercing seems to be good quality as well. The object is quite large at 5 inches across by 3 inches. It stands 2 and a half inches high. I think its French but would be grateful for any information or views.

[blakstone]

The maker is Paillard Frères (Brothers), working 1868-1888, 31 rue Chapon, Paris. I find it difficult to believe that the wooden liner is original; as you say, a glass liner would be the norm. And despite how well it fits, I cannot say it looks "expertly" made to my eye; the scratches and gouges around the interior suggest a talented amateur rather than a professional, in my opinion. Not knocking it, though - - it's a great substitute and quite handsome.