Chest of drawers - Hardwood

Antique printer’s tray / 1930s large format with an authentic industrial patina
Authentic period printer’s tray from the 1930s, coming from the traditional movable type printing world.
These trays were used by typesetters to organize thousands of metal type characters—letters, numbers and symbols used in the printing of books, newspapers and posters before the advent of modern typography and offset printing.
The particular internal subdivision is not random: the compartments vary in size according to the frequency of use of the characters. The most used letters occupied larger compartments, while less frequent ones found space in smaller slots. From this organization even originated the terms “uppercase” and “lowercase,” originally linked to the position of the characters in the type cases.
This piece stands out for:
• the splendid irregular geometric composition of the compartments;
• the strong decorative presence;
• the warm original patina of the wood;
• the robust, authentically lived-in structure;
• the beautiful original metal handle.
Together, they create a visually striking object that is today highly sought after in industrial, vintage, and wabi-sabi interior design.
Perfect as:
• a wall decorative element;
• a display case for collections;
• a small cabinet/shelf for curiosities and small objects;
• a furnishing accent for lofts, creative studios, ateliers, or industrial-style environments.
The variety of cells and the almost architectural rhythm of the structure give the piece a dynamic aesthetic quality compared to traditional typographic drawers with uniform compartments.
Very good condition and consistent with its age, with normal signs of wear that testify to its authenticity and history.
Measurements
• about 70 × 50 cm
• depth 4.5 / 6 cm
Compartment sizes
from about 3.8 × 3.2 cm up to 18 × 6.8 cm.
Further photographs and details available on request.
NOT SHIPPED TO THE USA