Ian,
Hopefully this will come over as constructive not rude (I can sometimes be taken that way!)
Finials are a skill and almost an art-form in themselves to get them to look right and balance with the object they sit atop. Yours lacks delicacy of form and and crispness of turning. You've probably over sanded the coves and beads. They also have a places where they work and places where they don't, this is definitely the latter I'm afraid.
The Box, where the hinge ring fits shows the shoulder (It should match the ring diameter) which is upsetting the overall form.
On the plus side;
The finish is excellent on both the box and finial, there are no sanding marks and the shine is very good in itself. The shape of the lower potion of the box flows well and forms a good curve.
Without the finial the lid would sit on a little high (to my eye), something slightly lower would maybe look better but that's what you've got. If the Finial can be removed, maybe a small knob in Blackwood (or other contrasting timber) could be fitted, more in keeping with the form.
You say you've been turning 18 months, you've done well, a tidy little lidded hollow-form from which I'm sure you've learnt a lesson or two. Learning is something we all aspire to do, keep up the good work.
And I hope Santa leaves something good for you under the tree.
