What is a Shadow Box?

What is a Shadow Box?

A shadow box is a frame that is deep enough to hold three-dimensional objects. More than just a picture frame with some depth, these cases make an excellent display for historic memorabilia, personal awards, art, or a wide range of sentimental objects. These enclosures protect precious heirlooms or keepsakes behind glass. This keeps them from being affected by air, dust, humidity, or damage.

Shadow boxes are generally available in two varieties, with or without non-reflective glass. Both add a touch of style and elegance to any room's decor. Traditional varieties are constructed from a square or rectangular wooden frame, which can be arranged in a series or as a standalone fixture. Modern designs typically include MDF bases affixed with an acrylic vitrine ideal for use in high-end galleries or museums.

Where Did Shadow Box Frames Come From?

Shadow box display cases are often presented to members of the military upon retirement to house honorable badges, pins, flags, and other rewards for their service to the country. Veterans would be given a shadow box to proudly commemorate their final rank and sacrifice, a totem to be taken home with them to be showcased and protected.

This practice reportedly comes from the tradition of sailors keeping these boxes as a part of their retirement

It was believed that when a retired sailor departed his ship for the last time, that it was bad luck for their shadow to touch land before they did. These sailors would place the memorabilia, patches, rank, and keepsakes earned through their service in a shadow box made of fine woods.

This case would therefore represent the "shadow" of the sailor and would be kept on-board until they were safely ashore — only being gifted to them in a small ceremony once they touched land.

What is a Modern Shadow Box is Used For?

Nowadays, these wall frames have become a popular choice even outside of military service. Decorative or functional display cases that mount to the wall immediately draw the eye to whatever is placed inside. Often used for memorabilia and collectibles in the home, in professional settings they are used to display artwork and sculpture or even high-ticket items for sale, in the case of antiques.

It might be tempting to build your own custom shadow box, but there are plenty of sizes available to fit meaningful objects of all shapes, and plenty of ways to take a stock standard shadow box and make it your own.

Arrange a picture collage around a particularly special item that reminds you of a loved one or a treasured moment. Another great way to make your shadow box stand out is by painting it to suit the items on display. Think outside the box and grow succulents out of one for a fresh take on living wall art, or press one of your favorite flowers behind the glass panel. It's easy to mount one of these hanging display cases with any standard photo frame hook or to position one nicely on a fireplace mantle or entertainment center.

These types of showcases come in a large variety of designs outside of the traditional style including countertop, illuminated, open frame, or versions with clear vitrines. What our extensive selection of shadow boxes have in common is that they protect your precious items from environmental damage while gaining them the attention they deserve. Browse Displays2go's collectible and memorabilia cases to find the perfect way to show off your most prized possessions. For military-focused presentations, check out or selection of memorial flag display cases to pay respect to the veteran in your life.