These cabinets were used by printers to store metal type.  Each drawer would contain one font in one size,  Today use it for storage of any flat materials or small parts.  Just a beautiful functional piece of American history. Gorgeous piece, fabulous hardware, incredible craftsmanship not seen in today's furniture. This particular cabinet has 20 drawers.

This one measures 31”w x 21” deep x 44” tall. This is one of the nicer ones we’ve seen, not too large, good size to be used in most rooms of the house or studio.
Could use a bit of TLC in the form of a little Cleaning and oiling.