TRAMP ART FRAME

Tramp Art Frame.

An exceptional wooden frame, an excellent example of tramp art. It can be used to frame a mirror, painting, or photograph.

Tramp art, known as “hobo art,” was popular from the 1870s to the 1940s. No one knows exactly when it started, but the materials used, especially wooden cigar boxes, became standard around the 1850s. Smoking cigars was highly popular at the time, and by law, cigar manufacturers could not reuse the boxes, making them an excellent source of material. Tramp art is believed to have developed from the folk art tradition of carving. Cigar boxes and pieces of wood from disassembled crates were carved and assembled into picture frames, decorated boxes, and even items of furniture. The style is thought to have originated in Germany and Scandinavia but can be found in all industrialized countries. The name comes from the myth that tramp art was created by hobos who would often trade their creations for food and shelter. While there is some truth to this myth, many tramp art creators were skilled craftsmen who dedicated much time to their creative endeavors. Most tramp art pieces are unsigned and undated, adding to their mystical aura.

Dimensions: 65 x 55 x 4.5 cm (for a picture or mirror measuring 42 x 32.5 cm)

Weight: 1.7 kg

The frame is in excellent condition.