This chest has a fall front and supporting metal fittings. The exterior of the chest is decorated with birds and animals surrounded by scrolling vines in low relief. The exterior is carved and there are traces of lacquer that wear, tear, and time have gradually removed. The interior of the lids and the drawers are not carved but are covered with red lacquer with gold painted scenes based on the traditional Chinese decorative repertoire. Several species of animals and birds and shown in pairs. Chinese influence is evident in the pictorial decoration such as the scrolling clouds and rocks which are also seen in Iranian manuscript painting. The Portuguese were the first to trade in the Indian Subcontinent for luxury goods in the 16th and 17th century, subsequently the Dutch and the British were also trading in these objects. The Portuguese were mainly involved in the production and consumption of this type of chests. Such demands were not seen in later Dutch and English trade in the Indian subcontinent. Hence it marked a particular period of trade and taste for the Portuguese market in India. Such a luxury item was admired by both the local and export markets and clearly demonstrates the role of trade in the production on visual culture.
