Solanders

Solanders are a type of case or box designed for the storage and protection of valuable or fragile items. Named after Daniel Carl Solander, a Swedish naturalist and collector who accompanied Captain James Cook on his first voyage around the world, these cases were developed in the late 18th century to safeguard specimens and artifacts during long journeys. Solanders are typically constructed from sturdy materials such as wood or heavy board, often covered with leather, cloth, or paper. They are characterized by their distinctive clamshell design, which opens to reveal shallow drawers or compartments. This design allows for easy access to the contents while also providing excellent protection against dust, light, and physical damage. Solander boxes were widely used by naturalists, collectors, and institutions for preserving and transporting scientific specimens, prints, manuscripts, and other delicate materials. Their robust construction and thoughtful organization made them an essential tool for the careful curation and study of collections in the era before more modern storage solutions were available. While less common today, they remain an iconic part of the history of collection management and are often found in museum archives and historical collections.