If a 16 ³ chunk contains no block models, chests, signs, and ender chests do not render.

A non-block model blocks include chests, signs, ender chests, and barriers.

Steps to reproduce:

1. Fly into the air until you are at least 16 blocks above all terrain.
2. Use the command /setblock ~ ~ ~ chest
3. Notice the chest is invisible
4. Place another block next to it in the same 16 ³ chunk
5. Notice the chest now renders