Display Cases and Curio Cabinets Frequently Asked Questions FAQ

Below is a condensed list of frequently asked questions regarding curio cabinets, trophy cases, and display cases.

FAQ

What types of display cases are available? And what are the mounting options and/or locations?

Free standing
These cases do not need to be attached to a floor or anchored to a wall. The case can be moved or rearranged when necessary. Some cases can also be displayed in the center of a room or lobby, especially the glass cases or hexagonal cases, where displays can be seen from every angle. These cases are great for temporary exhibits like in an art gallery, where displays are changed frequently.

Wall mounted
These are cases that are either permanently or semi-permanently fixed to a wall. Most come complete with mounting hardware.

Countertop
These cases are designed to sit high up on a table, desk, or counter. These cases are great for retail stores to display cameras, sunglasses, watches, etc. Countertop cases are also ideal for displaying a special doll or antique model car. They can be easily moved and do not require mounting or heavy set-up.

Corner
Cases that can either be configured with other showcase pieces for a wrap around retail display, or fit snug in a corner of a room. Great way to save or make smart use of space!

Table Display Cases
With these innovative cases, showcased items can be viewed from above. Generally free-standing and resembling a table, these cases are commonly used in jewelry stores or museums to allow the viewer more angles to see the items on display.

Illuminated
Lighted cases include top halogen lights (many recessed) to blanket your items in natural, bright, white light. Many cabinets have optional side track lighting as well as for added illumination in dimly lit areas.

Traditional
These are found in most residential homes and are fabricated from solid hardwoods. Many are passed down as family heirlooms, such as the Howard Miller Collection.

Contemporary
These are generally modern looking curio cabinets. The cabinets are elegant display cases that can be frameless, curved, hexagonal, rectangular, square, and/or have pedestals for use in galleries, museums, boutiques and upscale environments. Many include additional lighting options as well.

What materials are they made of? What color finishes?

Solid hardwood- several finishes
Including varying shades of cherry, oak, black, maple
Melamine laminate- several finishes
Including gray, black, oak, cherry, maple, rosewood, silver
Acrylic- generally clear
Glass- clear, generally made with tempered “safety” glass to minimize breakage and/or injury

Many cases also have:
anodized aluminum framing, in black, silver, chrome, or gold finish
mirror backs
fabric backs

Where are display cases being used?

Commercially:
Retail shops
Boutiques
Art galleries
Department stores
Salons

Residentially:
Dining rooms
Living rooms
Bedrooms
Bathrooms
Kitchens

In Schools, Colleges, Universities and Corporate Company Offices:
Lobbies
Offices
Foyers

Museums, Libraries and Art Galleries:
Exhibits
Lobbies
Hallways
City Hall and Government Centers
Dance Studios
Doctor and medical offices

Who also uses display cases on a regular basis?

Hobbyists
Collectors
Sports Enthusiasts

What is typically displayed?

Trophies
Dolls
Fine china
Jewelry
Awards
Plaques
Figurines
Collectibles
Memorabilia
Flags
Pictures
Sculptures
Art
Sports accessories: helmets, bats, balls, jerseys, autographed items, cards
Antiques
Trains
Coins
Medals
Veteran and War memorabilia
Eye glasses
Sun glasses
Watches
Perfume
Small models of classic cars
Guitars
Violins
Cameras
And much more!

Are there any brand name display cases? If so which ones?

Yes, there are many. Below are two primary examples of quality brand name display cases. trophy cases, and curio cabinets.

Howard Miller Collection
These cases are of superior heirloom quality, crafted by the legendary Howard Miller Company. The Howard Miller name stands for unsurpassed quality and incomparable workmanship. Fabricated from glass and hardwoods, these Howard Miller curio cabinets are ideal for displaying heirlooms, fine china, glassware and other collectibles. Each display case and curio cabinet is crafted from the finest woods, resulting in furniture that is truly a work of art. Once primarily considered as gifts for weddings, anniversaries and retirements, these American-made curio cabinets are becoming more and more enticing to buyers who simply desire quality furniture in their homes and businesses -- no occasion required.


Gerhard Lukas Premium Display Case Collection
All cases by Gerhard Lukas are a completely unique design, sure to be found nowhere else in the world. Crafted from study tempered glass and premium veneers, these glass display cases and cabinets are perfect for use in jewelry stores, retail stores, or even in your home. Their revolutionary lighting system provides illumination on each level for many of the cases, without unsightly cords or extrusions. Gerhard Lukas display cases feature innovative frameless designs that enhance your showcased products or collectibles.


What are some of the most common features offered in a display case?

Adjustable shelving
allows you to gauge the amount of room you will need for whatever it is you are looking to display, and then adjust your shelves accordingly.

Lighting
many include top halogen lighting, some recessed, which means they are built into the top of the case and do not protrude out. In addition to top lighting, some of our cases also come with the option of side track lighting, allowing you to cast light directly on each item in your showcase.

Sliding locking doors
protect the contents within. Doors also help resist dust.

Tempered glass
also known as “safety glass” minimizes breakage and injury. Tempered glass is four to five times stronger than standard glass because it is manufactured through a process of extreme heating and rapid cooling, making it harder than normal glass. The brittle nature of tempered glass causes it to shatter into small oval-shaped pebbles when broken. This eliminates the danger of sharp edges.

Levelers
some are adjustable, help steady the case on uneven surfaces.

Mirrored backs
enhance your valuable’s appearance due to mirror reflection.

Fabric backs
appealing, especially when displaying certain objects like awards and medals.

Glass shelving
shows the items on display from many angles.

Short History of Display Cases and Curio Cabinets

What is a curio cabinet?

The word “curio” is derived from the word curious. The term “curio cabinet” refers to a case or cabinet where curious objects are displayed. Today, the term is most commonly defined as a piece of furniture meant for showcasing items of beauty, collectibles, awards, or treasured memorabilia.

What has changed regarding display cases and curio cabinets over the years?

Curio cabinets date back about 500 years to the time period referred to as the Renaissance. This was a time period of revolutionary thought, unique design, and attention to beauty and detail. These classic display cases were used to showcase beautiful pieces of art, like that of a modern day museum.

What is the “modern” curio cabinet?

Today, most modern curio cabinets and display cases are much more functional. Some are lit, have mirrored backs, and extra style like our curved or hexagonal shaped cases. Compartments have been expanded, and have more storage capabilities than the original cases once had. Some have sliding doors and key locks for use in public places, or simply for breakage protection.