A shadow box is an enclosed case used in dioramas with a scene or object(s), that has been specially designed to let light pass through from only one angle, so that objects within are less susceptible to damage from light.
They are typically presented to members of the military when they retire. These shadow boxes will normally contain the several medals and awards a person has earned during his military career, the flag of both their country and military service, and their final badge of rank.
In the USA, some enterprises specialize in the production and sale of shadow boxes. Price can range from just a few dollars to several hundred. People often purchase these in order to preserve, and still enjoy souvenir. A similar case, called the "uniform display case", shows an entire uniform with valid insignia placement.
Some shadow boxes are constructed using colored paper or cardboard. They are usually given away as an interesting alternative to more standard greeting cards. Like the traditional, military shadow boxes, paper counterparts also feature some form of window or cut out to expose dioramas, illustrations or other contents within.
A souvenir (from French, for memory), memento or keepsake is an object a traveler brings home for the memories associated with it. Souvenirs include clothing such as T-shirts or hats, and household items such as mugs and bowls, ashtrays, egg timers, spoons and notepads. They may be marked to indicate their origin: "A Souvenir from Clacton-on-Sea". Souvenirs frequently have a reputation for being tasteless.
Some souvenirs are quite expensive and may be in gold.
In Japan, souvenirs are known as meibutsu (products associated with a particular region); and omiyage, candies or other edibles to be shared with co-workers. Omiyage sales are big business at Japanese tourist sites.
Travelers may buy souvenirs as gifts for those who did not make the trip. In Cameroon, the principle is that someone who can afford to travel can afford to bring something back (as a gift, or cadeau) for those who cannot. French bread is a popular cadeau.
