The term “tramp art” refers to a woodworking style that was most prevalent during the Great Depression, characterized by chip or notch carving and layering of geometric shapes. As was often the case in that era of financial hardship, artisans crafted their works from whatever wood materials were affordable or available to them, such as cigar boxes or shipping crates. Creations were most often in the form of boxes or dimensional frames, though you can find some rare tramp art pieces in sculpture styles and furniture. Tramp art pieces had a heavy presence in the Adirondacks Great Camps that influenced this collection.

This turn-of-the-century piece is a classic hand-crafted example of the geometric beauty of tramp art. It’s a small chest with a lid and two drawers, with wear commensurate with its age. A unique conversation piece.