Antique Hand Carved Tramp Art Box with “Aus Liebe” Inscription
Alsace Region (Hagenau), late 19th century
Wood, metal, velvet, gilt trim
Dimensions: 12”W × 5.5”H × 7.75”D
This antique Tramp Art box exemplifies the distinctive layered chip carving tradition that was prevalent in Germany in the mid-19th century and later spread throughout Europe and North America. Characterized by geometric relief carving from repurposed wood, Tramp Art emerged as a popular form of working-class decorative expression, transforming humble materials into intricate objects.
The example features a red velvet-lined interior and a blue velvet top panel framed by four metal decals of soldiers with rifles. Each inset is bordered by gilt trim, showing natural wear from age and use. The front displays a metal inscription reading “Aus Liebe” (“Out of Love”), flanked by floral metal appliqués, suggesting a personal or romantic dedication.
A small metal label en verso engraved “Hagenau” beneath a royal crown indicates production in Haguenau, a town in the Alsace region that was part of Germany until 1918. The patina and inscription place the box firmly within the late 19th-century folk art tradition of Central Europe (Hagenau became Haguenau after becoming part of France).
Condition: Structurally sound; areas of gilt trim and velvet exhibit wear consistent with age.
Antique Hand Carved Tramp Art Box with “Aus Liebe” Inscription
Alsace Region (Hagenau), late 19th century
Wood, metal, velvet, gilt trim
Dimensions: 12”W × 5.5”H × 7.75”D
This antique Tramp Art box exemplifies the distinctive layered chip carving tradition that was prevalent in Germany in the mid-19th century and later spread throughout Europe and North America. Characterized by geometric relief carving from repurposed wood, Tramp Art emerged as a popular form of working-class decorative expression, transforming humble materials into intricate objects.
The example features a red velvet-lined interior and a blue velvet top panel framed by four metal decals of soldiers with rifles. Each inset is bordered by gilt trim, showing natural wear from age and use. The front displays a metal inscription reading “Aus Liebe” (“Out of Love”), flanked by floral metal appliqués, suggesting a personal or romantic dedication.
A small metal label en verso engraved “Hagenau” beneath a royal crown indicates production in Haguenau, a town in the Alsace region that was part of Germany until 1918. The patina and inscription place the box firmly within the late 19th-century folk art tradition of Central Europe (Hagenau became Haguenau after becoming part of France).
Condition: Structurally sound; areas of gilt trim and velvet exhibit wear consistent with age.
