Shadow Boxes

Antique, new and vintage shadow boxes are an elegant way to present objects of deep importance or beauty in your space. Shadow boxes have long been a military tradition for displaying medals and awards.

Artists such as Joseph Cornell have used shadow boxes because of the dramatic visuals they can achieve as a three-dimensional piece. In recent years, shadow boxes have grown in popularity as home decor. A clean, empty shadow box presents everyone the opportunity to create a personal art piece. What goes into the shadow box solely depends on the artist’s vision, meaning there is no concrete design that each shadow box displays.

Shadow boxes vary in size and style, lending flexibility for different aesthetics in a room. They can also come premade or with only a frame for more customization and personalization. When you’re thinking about how to arrange art in your living room or dining room, integrating shadow boxes into a maximalist approach such as a salon-style gallery wall can add a dramatic touch and draw attention to whatever kind of work you’ve decided to place in the box.

On 1stDibs, find antique, vintage and 21st-century shadow boxes. Shadow boxes are available from a range of creators and in diverse styles, including mid-century modern, Victorian, folk art and more.