Chihuahua Trail Petaca

This rare 18th century Spanish colonial petaca (traveling case) was made by hand more than 200 years ago from nothing more than the most basic of materials -- multiple hyde panels seamed by a sturdy sinew cord. The petaca is made in two parts with conforming body and lid and displayed on a later hand forged iron stand.

Travel cases like the petaca offered here made their way to New Mexico by way of the Chihuahua Trail, a 16th century trade route that brought missionaries, mule trains, soldiers, traders, colonists and politicians from Chihuahua to Santa Fe. For centuries the rank and file made this harrowing forty day journey and in their wake they left behind records of their presence which included all kinds of jewelry, beads, buttons, thread, needles, thimbles, scissors, pans, dishes, bottles, writing paper, books, rifles, traps, tools and furniture. Although there are few surviving examples, many of the foregoing accessories found along the Chihuahua Trail were transported inside petacas. 

Dimensions: Petaca measures 23 inches long x 17 inches wide x 13 inches high. Overall height on iron base is 19 inches. 

Condition: in excellent, original condition. Complete, intact, sturdy. 

questions? Contact us at 415-578-8814 or info@colonialarts.com