Rice chests were basically large square boxes, usually made of elm or thick pine, which were always kept locked. All the staples and condiments of a Korean kitchen were carefully stored away in such chests, and the basic staple of Korea for thousands of years has been rice. Kitchen chests were usually ornamented with black iron because brass tarnished quickly in proximity to the cooking fire. Although these chests were simple and utilitarian, Korean chest makers used their talents of design and construction to produce interesting, attractive and well-made furniture.