Trunks were a typical product of the prosperous Manila Galleon trade. When the Spaniards arrived in the Philippines in the sixteenth century, they capitalized on existing traditions of woodcarving and an abundance of fine woods by incorporating carved decoration into newly built churches, retablos (altarpieces), and a range of luxury export goods. This travel chest bears an elaborately rendered vegetal motif across its surfaces, while the dovetail joints on the sides exemplify the dexterous artistry of the piece. Below the lock plate is a double-headed eagle—a symbol of the Spanish monarchy.