Wood display case with wood “pages”

[Dja]

What was this used for? The top piece has wooden “pages” where it appears something thin was applied such as paper or fabric. The top was designed to attach to the bottom with pins but they were not made together I do not think. The trim is different as is the finish. The top part has two sides that close to cover the hinges and also a lock to keep it shut. I’d love to know if anyone has ever seen anything like this and what is is and what it might be worth. Thanks itsh

 

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[HuntinDog]

We had one similar in our firehouse that they displayed the fire pictures in/on.
You flipped through the "pages" and viewed the pictures.

 

[A2coins]

Thats reall cool whatever it is

 

[ripvanb]

Maybe maps

 

[ANTIQUARIAN]

First of all, these two cabinets have been 'married'... they didn't start life together. The top section is made of oak and the bottom cabinet looks to be made of walnut.
Both of these pieces look to date to the Eastlake Period or the late Victorian period. I also feel that the top section is somewhat older then the bottom.

"The Eastlake Movement was an American nineteenth-century architectural and household design reform movement started by architect and writer Charles Eastlake (1836—1906).
The movement is generally considered part of the late Victorian period in terms of broad antique furniture designations."

I think HuntinDog is correct that this cabinet was for displaying something, the first thought that came to my mind was for hanging blueprints or artwork to dry.
The lock to secure the top sections doors is not the most secure design, but the brass hinges are a signs of a quality cabinet maker.

Dave

 

[Bruce R]

To display wallpaper samples or something on that order. Oak cabinets were common in general stores and hardware stores.