chests

Chests are rigid containers used for storage and transport. In furniture, a chest is a rectangular box with a hinged or removable lid, designed to hold textiles, tools, valuables, or household items. Common materials include wood, metal, and durable plastics. Many chests incorporate features such as hinges, latches, handles, and sometimes locks or hidden compartments. They can vary in size from small portable boxes to large, ornate pieces of furniture, and may be ornamented with carvings, veneers, or inlays.

There are many specialized forms. Blanket chests are used for storing bedding; cedar chests are valued for fragrance and moth resistance; hope chests traditionally stored items for a new household; toy chests hold children’s toys; trunk designs adapted for travel or ships. In decorative or heirloom contexts, chests are often constructed with traditional joinery and may serve as focal points in a room.

Care and use: Keep chests dry and away from direct moisture; use desiccants or humidity control if needed. Cedar chests may require occasional airing to maintain fragrance. Metal chests may need lining and rust protection. Locks and clasps provide security, though their effectiveness varies with design and age.

Anatomy: The chest, or thorax, is the front portion of the torso enclosed by the rib cage and diaphragm. It contains the heart and lungs, protected by the sternum, ribs, and vertebrae. The chest also houses major blood vessels and, in females, part of the breast tissue. The structure supports respiration and circulation, while the associated muscles aid in breathing.