Shadow box

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For the Tony-winning drama, see The Shadow Box

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Example of a shadow box for a U.S. soldier who served during the Iraq War.

A shadow box is an enclosed case used in dioramas with a scene or object(s), that has been specially designed to let light pass through from only one angle, so that objects within are less susceptible to damage from light.

They are typically presented to members of the military upon retirement. These shadow boxes will usually contain the various medals and awards a person has earned through a military career, the flag of both their country and military service, and their final badge of rank.

In the United States, some companies specialize in the construction and sale of shadow boxes. Price can range from just a few dollars to several hundred. People often purchase these in order to preserve, and still enjoy memorabilia. A similar case, called the uniform display case, displays an entire uniform with correct insignia placement.

Some shadow boxes are constructed using colored paper or cardboard. They are typically given away as an interesting alternative to more standard greeting cards. Like the traditional, military shadow boxes, paper counterparts also feature some form of window or cut out to expose dioramas, illustrations or other contents within.