Antique Olinalá Lacquer Trunk on Original Base

Antique Olinalá Lacquer Trunk on Original Base First 1/4 20th Century

Anonymous Artisan

Lacquer

Ht. 39.25″ x W. 32.5″ x D. 23″

Lacquer work in the town of Olinalá, Guerrero predates the arrival of the Spanish and even the arrival of the Manila Galleons that brought oriental lacquer to Mexico. The artists apply many layers of chia or linseed oil and mineral powders, which they grind themselves and impregnate with naturally derived dyes. They burnish each layer, leaving the work with a rich depth of color and luscious soft sheen. This rare trunk dates from the 1920s or 30s and is an exquisite example of the style of that era. The base that it sits on is unique; we have never seen another one. It cleverly supports the lid when opened.