1 of 4   Utilitarian
	Chest, Late 19th century. Artist unknown, Olinalß, Guerrero. Laquered and painted wood: 14-3/4" x 33" x 16-3/4". The Nelson A. Rockefeller Mexican Folk Art Collection.		CHEST runks were made to keep important papers and heirlooms and were often given as wedding gifts. This particular chest has a traditional deep orange-red lacquered base. Lacquer techniques were learned thanks to SpainÆs trade contacts with the Orient. The painted colonial panorama on the sides is embellished with a profusion of animal and plant motifs. The ancient eagle-and-serpent motif surrounded by Mexican flags is painted on the lid. The interiors of 19th century dowry chests were painted a solid color, with the young womanÆs decorated initials often painted on the inside of the lid.