Unusual small cabinet (Stanmore, HA7)

A solid wood small cabinet I have owned for 30+ years, it has an unusual aspect – the top opens! I have no idea why it was designed this way, but it makes it easier to retrieve an item at the back of the shelf. Some recent marks on the leading edge and clearly shown in one of the photos, but I expect this can be largely renovated to a pleasing appearance, with some furniture stainer. Height 88cm, width 58cm and depth 36cm. Free to collect.