A display case is a glazed cabinet or box designed to show objects while protecting them from dust, handling and damage. Display cases range from small table-top cases for jewellery, coins or natural history specimens to freestanding floor cabinets, wall-mounted cases and the large mahogany and glass units made for museums, shops and exhibitions.
The nineteenth century saw a boom in display cases, driven by the growth of public museums, international exhibitions, department stores and private collecting. Specialist shopfitters produced high-quality cases in mahogany, oak, walnut or ebonised wood with bevelled glass, brass fittings and lockable doors, and many of these now find new homes in private houses. Smaller domed cases were used for taxidermy, wax flowers and clocks, while bijouterie tables with glazed tops displayed small treasures in drawing rooms. When buying a display case, check the condition of the glass, the security of the doors and locks, and whether shelves and interior fittings are original. Museum and shop cases are popular with interior designers because they provide practical display space with a strong architectural character, suiting both period and contemporary interiors.
