Stunning 1940s Matchstick and Wood Inlay Tramp Art Tray red jasper presumed early 20th century

presumed early 20th century

I purchased the piece from the estate of a dancer/choreographer in Boston's Beacon Hill neighborhood

I'm not sure if it was a kid or an artist who made it (it is signed S

I like the connection between the figure mining for fish hidden below the surface of the ice and the box itself as a place where treasures are concealed and kept safe

Stunning 1940s Matchstick and Wood Inlay Tramp Art Tray red jasper presumed early 20th centurySince falling in love with a large trivet made of matchsticks at an estate sale in Kansas City, I have been keeping a keen eye out for other tramp art treasures. Unfortunately, it is mostly clunky vessels made of popsicle sticks that one most often comes across! So I was delighted to find this striking piece at an antique shop in Maine: a wooden tray with face constructed of matchsticks and inlaid wood, then covered with a pane of glass which both