Details
Description
This is a handmade tramp art box, a folk art tradition that flourished in the late 19th and early 20th …
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This is a handmade tramp art box, a folk art tradition that flourished in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, created primarily from repurposed cigar boxes and scrap wood.
Exterior Design
• Construction: Built with characteristic chip-carved, layered notches—a hallmark of tramp art. Each piece of wood is meticulously cut into small, pyramid-like ridges and stacked in successive layers, creating a highly textured, almost architectural look.
• Shape: The box is rectangular with projecting corners and stepped layers, giving it a strong geometric presence.
• Panels: Red velvet inlays are set into the top and sides, adding warmth, richness, and contrast against the golden wood.
Interior
• Lining: The inside is lined with turquoise-blue patterned fabric, with a floral motif, which would have been a decorative and protective choice for jewelry or keepsakes.
• Detail: A small red pull tab hangs from the lid, making it easier to open. It has been torn over the years but still useable
Base & Markings
• The underside shows green felt pads, probably to protect furniture surfaces.
• Hand-carved inscriptions include:
• “E.D. Gresly” (likely the maker’s name).
• Date: 6 – 21, 1921
• Initials EDG and other hand-etched marks, reinforcing its handmade, personal nature.
Style & Significance
• Though tramp art peaked earlier (1880s–1930s), artisans continued the tradition much later, often as hobbyists or folk art enthusiasts.
• This box exemplifies the resourcefulness and ornate craftsmanship of tramp art: taking humble materials and transforming them into something highly decorative.
• The use of velvet and bright fabric linings adds to its folk luxury appeal.
✨ Overall, this is a striking example of 20th-century tramp art revival, blending folk tradition with personal artistry.
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- Dimensions
- 11ʺW × 8ʺD × 6.5ʺH
- Styles
- Folk Art
- Period
- 1920s
- Country of Origin
- United States
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Wood
- Condition
- Good Condition, Original Condition Unaltered, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Brown
- Condition Notes
- Good condition. Opening tab is torn but still works Good condition. Opening tab is torn but still works less
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Returns & Cancellations
Return Policy - All sales are final 48 hours after delivery, unless otherwise specified in the description of the product.
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