Recently, a Reddit user posted about a unique object they found while clearing out the home of a relative who had passed away. The object was a small, intriguing cabinet about 13” tall, 9” wide, and 5.25” deep. The poster was unsure about the item’s exact age or name, and after receiving permission to take it home instead of throwing it out, they sought help from the Reddit community to identify its style and origin. The question arose: Is there a specific name for this type of cabinet, and how can we pinpoint its age and potential value?
In the comments that followed, a variety of suggestions and ideas came forward, offering some fascinating insights into what this object might be. Here, we explore the comments from fellow antique enthusiasts and delve deeper into the possible answers.
A Display Cabinet with Purpose?
The first comment offered a simple but plausible suggestion: “I would call it a display cabinet. It was probably used in a store to display jewelry.” This interpretation seems to fit the description of the object. The small drawers and compact design suggest it could indeed have been used to display small valuable items like jewelry or other collectibles in a store setting. If the cabinet was originally used in a shop, it could be a piece designed to showcase wares to customers in an organized and attractive way.
Building on this, another Reddit user commented: “Score! Cool cabinet.” The appreciation for the object is clear. The excitement and intrigue from the community about the find are evident, with the item seeming to resonate with those who admire vintage and antique pieces.
Exploring Other Possibilities
Another Redditor suggested: “Apothecary chest.” This piece of advice hints at the possibility that the cabinet may have been used in a pharmacy or an apothecary setting. Apothecary chests were often used to store small vials or medicines, with several drawers to organize the various items. Although this cabinet does not seem to show signs of being used for that purpose, it could still be an intriguing connection.
Following this thought, someone recommended: “Search for ‘specimen cabinet.’” Specimen cabinets were commonly used to store curiosities or natural history collections. They often had small drawers to keep various items like minerals, shells, or botanical specimens. Given the small and delicate nature of the drawers in the posted cabinet, this seems like a plausible direction for further research.
Salesman Samples and Jewelry Displays
Several commenters took a more specific approach, offering insights into potential uses for this piece. One user suggested: “Could be a salesman’s sample piece….” Salesman sample cabinets were used by traveling salesmen to show potential customers miniature versions of larger furniture pieces or items. These smaller replicas were crafted to display quality, materials, and design without needing to bring large pieces along for the pitch. If the cabinet in question was indeed a salesman’s sample, it would certainly be a unique piece, indicative of the business practices of a bygone era.
One comment echoed this sentiment: “For sure from an old jewelry store.” This remark supports the initial idea that the cabinet may have had a practical function in displaying small goods like jewelry. With its size and compact drawers, it seems like an ideal storage solution for a jewelry shop.
A Rustic Antique: More History Unveiled
Another commenter added their thoughts about the cabinet’s origins, suggesting: “Small chest of drawers like this are often called specimen cabinets. Rich gentlemen would obtain curiosities from different places and place them in cabinets.” This statement seems to align well with the possibility of the cabinet being used for storing exotic or rare items, such as curiosities or artifacts collected by wealthy individuals. The rich history behind this concept gives the cabinet even more intrigue.
The commenter also noted: “This one looks like a rustic interpretation of classic Georgian/Victorian cabinets. It could possibly come from India as during the height of the Raj many Indian versions of British furniture designs were made in this style.” This additional insight suggests that the cabinet could have been inspired by British design but made in India, especially during the time of British colonial rule. The rustic charm of the piece might indeed point to its origins in a time when British design was being adapted and reproduced in colonies.
Valuation and Restoration Tips
One particularly detailed comment came from someone with experience working in an antique store: “I worked in an antique store for 5 years back in the mid 70’s. It’s probably a salesman’s sample cabinet to show the customer a company’s wares. It has some value. Maybe around $500 but that’s just a guess. It could be more or slightly less. Do not take it to an antique store and try to sell it. They will only give you a dime on the dollar.”
This response provides helpful context for the item’s potential value, suggesting that the cabinet could be worth somewhere around $500, though the actual price would depend on various factors such as its condition and rarity. The advice about not selling it to an antique store is valuable, as they may offer far less than the item’s actual worth. This commenter also offered practical restoration tips: “I would get the smallest can of Minwax Walnut Stain and wipe the entire cabinet with a scotch pad to distribute the stain. Be gentle…Then wipe it clean and allow it to dry before putting Tongue oil over that. Let it set for an hour or so before wiping it dry.” The idea of gently restoring the cabinet rather than stripping it is important for preserving its historical integrity and enhancing its overall appearance.
Conclusion: A Unique Find with Rich History
In conclusion, the cabinet in question appears to be a fascinating and potentially valuable antique. Whether it’s a display cabinet, an apothecary chest, a specimen cabinet, or a salesman’s sample, its design and function point to a period in history when small, meticulously crafted items were used for specific practical purposes, whether in stores, homes, or as part of collections. The piece’s charm and rustic beauty give it a unique appeal, and with careful restoration, it could become a wonderful addition to any collection.
As with many antiques, determining the exact value and history of such an item requires expert knowledge and careful consideration. For now, it’s clear that this small cabinet has found a new admirer who is eager to learn more about its origins—and possibly even restore it to its former glory.
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