Industrial Steel Storage Cabinet, also known as Metal Bookcase or Factory Locker
Storage (Metal Cabinet or Bookcase) · Industrial (Mid-20th Century, circa 1940-1960) · Generic institutional manufacturer, likely American or European office and factory furniture supplier such as Lyon Metal Products or Steelcase
Type
Storage (Metal Cabinet or Bookcase)
Style Period
Industrial (Mid-20th Century, circa 1940-1960)
Material
Heavy-gauge sheet steel with welded and bolted construction, featuring glass panel doors
Age Estimate
Mid-20th century, circa 1940-1960
Dimensions
Estimated height of 72 inches, width of 30 inches, and depth of 15 inches, consistent with standard industrial utility storage lockers
Origin
Likely manufactured in the United States or Europe for commercial, school, or factory use
Designer/Maker
Generic institutional manufacturer, likely American or European office and factory furniture supplier such as Lyon Metal Products or Steelcase
Value Estimate
Estimated market value between 150 and 400 dollars, heavily dependent on buyer demand for authentic industrial decor and the extent of required restoration
Description
A rugged, utilitarian industrial steel storage cabinet featuring vertical upright sections with glass-panneled doors. Designed for heavy-duty commercial or institutional environments, this modular unit exhibits a robust metal construction with a dark factory finish, showing significant signs of exposure and age.
Key Features
Heavy-duty steel frame, glass-insert hinged doors, modular stacked configuration, and utilitarian industrial hardware
Color & Finish
Dark olive green or black factory enamel paint with heavy patina, soot, and wear from an industrial or fire-damaged environment
Construction Method
Commercial machine-made with welded joints, riveted assembly, and hinged doors designed for institutional or factory use
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Industrial spot welding, rivet construction, and bolted modular sections indicating utilitarian commercial fabrication
Wood Grain & Species
None applicable as the piece is constructed entirely of metal
Surface Treatment
Original industrial enamel coating showing extensive weathering, soot accumulation, and surface oxidation
Upholstery Details
None applicable
Hardware & Fittings
Original steel hinges, latch mechanisms, and small spherical metal door knobs
Origin & Provenance
Likely manufactured in the United States or Europe for commercial, school, or factory use
Condition Notes
Fair condition; shows heavy surface soot, environmental grime, minor oxidation, and wear consistent with industrial use or fire-adjacent storage, but retains structural integrity
Interesting Facts
Metal industrial furniture gained massive popularity after World War II due to steel surplus and the demand for durable, fire-resistant office and factory storage
Cultural Significance
Represents the utilitarian design aesthetic of the mid-century industrial era, which has since been popularized in loft-style and industrial chic interior design
Similar Pieces
Standard industrial lockers, medical cabinets, and vintage filing cupboards; distinguished primarily by the glass door panels and modular height
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft brush and mild detergent to remove soot without stripping the aged patina; protect from moisture to prevent further oxidation
Value Estimate
Estimated market value between 150 and 400 dollars, heavily dependent on buyer demand for authentic industrial decor and the extent of required restoration
Sustainability Notes
Highly sustainable due to extreme durability, longevity, and potential for endless reuse and repurposing of vintage metal goods
Notes
4 shelf metal book case