Peribán, in Michocán, was an acclaimed center for the production of fine lacquerware. In ancient times, Purépecha artists carved designs into lacquered gourds and used powdered pigments to inlay the excised sections. The technique was subsequently applied to a range of wooden furnishings introduced by the Spaniards, such as this chest. Here, riders on horseback are surrounded by local birds and plants, as well as pomegranates (brought to Mexico by the Spaniards). The crowned rampant lions on the sides, which symbolize the Spanish monarchy, are placed amid a profusion of Native and foreign motifs.