A true masterpiece of American folk art, this tramp art frame showcases the patience and skill that define the form at its best. Built from "found wood," likely salvaged cigar boxes or candy boxes, it rises in a grand total of 14 layers, each hand-notched and stacked to create remarkable depth and texture.

Who was the master artist that created it? We will never know, as few Tramp Art pieces were signed or could be tracked back to the maker. This wonderful piece does come with provenance though: it was part of the collection of Michael Cornish, co-author with Clifford Wallach of Tramp Art: One Notch at a Time, a leading reference on Tramp Art. Its place in Cornish's collection speaks to its quality and significance within the genre.

What makes this frame notable is the masterful detail and symmetry of its many layers, with alternating notching techniques and wood tones throughout. The light, crisply cut edges play against the warm, darker surfaces resulting in a rhythmic architectural design. Lapped corners are crowned with stepped square blocks, and centered medallions anchor the top and bottom rails. Elongated rounded panels run along each side, framed by bands of sawtooth and zigzag notching that carry the eye around the whole piece.

The frame is in truly outstanding condition, with its layers intact and a rich, even patina that reflects more than a century of age. It currently holds a mirror but would be equally striking as a frame for artwork or a photograph. You could hang this on the wall without the mirror and it would serve as the art itself.

Provenance: Purchased from the collection of Michael Cornish, co-author of Tramp Art: One Notch at a Time, with Clifford Wallach.

Date: Likely from 1870-1890. The mirror and its backing, and the hanging wire, are recent additions and can easily be removed or changed.

Dimensions: Outside dimensions: 20" x 17.5"; inner dimensions; 14" x 11"

References

Cornish, Michael and Clifford Wallach (1997): "Tramp Art One Notch at a Time," Irons Antiques Publishers


Condition:
Alterations: Original Design Modified
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: This piece is in outstanding condition given its age. There are minor imperfections on the wood and variation in color that is consist with age and use. Please see the photos.

The mirror and its backing wood are new, as are the hooks and hanging wire. These are not original to the frame and can easily be removed or replaced with a painting or photograph.

Origin:
United States

Materials & Techniques:
Found Objects, Mirror, Wood

Details:
Country of Origin: United States
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used

Original Design Modified; Some Imperfections; This piece is in outstanding condition given its age. There are minor imperfections on the wood and variation in color that is consist with age and use. Please see the photos.

The mirror and its backing wood are new, as are the hooks and hanging wire. These are not original to the frame and can easily be removed or replaced with a painting or photograph.