This is a lovely Georgian mahogany book press,  sometimes also  described as a press for linen napkins. It actually can do both.
This  good quality mahogany book press, has  a lovely rich  colour. They were used
 to keep books flat by bookbinders and  to apply even pressure to freshly glued book spines, or by merchants as "letter copying presses.
The central screw moves up and down depending on the size of the books and the drawer was used to store bookbinding tools, ink, and sealing wax.
It has its original swan neck handle, dovetailed drawer and central screw and handle all in good working order.
The press measures 33cm w x 20cm d x 38cm h.