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19th Century, Traditional Mexican Lacquered and Hand-Painted Blanket Chest

$7,000
£5,291.19
€6,069.21
CA$9,758.29
A$10,622.69
CHF 5,638.53
MX$127,813.85
NOK 71,447.84
SEK 65,466.41
DKK 45,324.53

About the Item

This chest from the 19th century is a majestic example of the technique known as ‘maque’, or lacquer, developed in Mexico over the centuries. It is lacquered in an orange background and profusely decorated on all sides. On its front a typical Mexican town is represented: the church stands with imposing towers to the centre, surrounded by buildings of viceregal style; on the sides and on the lid appear various plants and wild animals, such as cats, birds and the emblematic eagle standing on the nopal. The various sets of images are framed by borders and decorative patterns. The interior, lacquered in an intense orange color, exhibits again the national emblem of the eagle holding the snake perched on a set of white flowers. The chest embodies the typical technique of the region of Olinalá in the state of Guerrero. As the most important point of lacquer production in Mexico, their exceptional technique is one that encompasses the use of endemic chia oil and diverse natural pigments. In Mexico, lacquer ware has been cultivated since pre Hispanic times, having different origins from Asian lacquer ware. During the Spanish Colonial era, the indigenous tradition combined with European and Asian designs due to a vast net of international trade. Olinalá lacquer ware is a splendid result of this mix of cultures.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 13.39 in (34 cm)Width: 32.68 in (83 cm)Depth: 15.75 in (40 cm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    19th Century
  • Condition:
  • Seller Location:
    Mexico City, MX
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU3531310920911

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