Not all Tramp Art was made by tramps. While Depression-era itinerant hobos did indeed exchange these hand-tooled art objects for food and drink, Tramp Art pieces were also produced by dedicated folk artists, hand-crafted using simple tools (like penknives) and wood from discarded fruit crates or from old cigar boxes. Whether by bonafide tramps or outsider artisans, we love these remarkable objects that elevate their humble materials, convey a sense of history, and celebrate the hand of the maker.

Vintage Tramp Art picture frame with a photo dated 1891 of visitors of French Lick Springs, Indiana,  17 1/4 x 14 inches.