# Estilo Taracea Oaxaquena: Papelera, Early 19thC.
This stunning Papelera, Estilo Taracea Oaxaquena dates back to the early 19th century and is a true masterpiece of hand made furniture. Thought to be handcrafted in the little village of Villa Alta de San Ildefonso in the Sierra Norte de Oaxaca, this piece showcases the exceptional skill of the local artisans who were known for providing furniture for the Virreinales in the XVII century. The intricate design features a mix of Chinantecas, Zapotecs, Tlaxcalans and Nahuatl influences, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Analco barrio. This rare piece is a true treasure for any antique collector or lover of traditional Mexican craftsmanship.
We are still investigating the origins of this piece. Experts have indicated that it is NOT a true Taracea process but as of today we have not 100% determined it's origins.
The greatest pieces went to Spain and are today in the major museums of the world.
The most famous piece remaining in Mexico is the pulpet in La Iglesia San Jeronimo Tlacochahuaya located in the central valley of Oaxaca.
Notice the drawer lining made with the wood 'Lináloe', that is a hallmark of the masters of this barrio.
This papelera has just such a wood inside all the drawers, it is placed in as a veneer, over the base wood that composes the drawers. It is a special aromatic wood that the craftsman of Olinala use today in their lacquered boxes. It may have been used to protect the paper documents that would have been stored in a "Papelera" like this one.
The special arched drawers are called "galerias" or "logias" and are found in most of the pieces made in the Taracea (inlay) manner from Analco.
This has 'bun' feet, typical of the style used thoughout the centuries.
The dimensions of this national treasure are: 43" wide, 29.5" tall and 16" deep. (109cm x75cm y 40cm)
In very good condition with two very old repairs I have discovered while pouring over the piece for taking photos. I challenge anyone to find them!
We're dating this from the early 19th C. It could very well be a little older, there just aren't any examples close by to compare construction techniques.