Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
This whimsical, triangular Santa Claus ornament is a licensed reproduction of an original hand-carved piece by the renowned American folk art studio, Sticks. Featuring bold woodburned outlines, vibrant colors, and the playful 'HO HO HO' lettering interspersed with geometric shapes, it perfectly captures the studio's signature rustic-modern aesthetic.
Story
In 1992, Des Moines artist Sarah Grant founded Sticks, a studio that turned simple wood carvings into a national folk art phenomenon. This ornament brought their signature, highly coveted hand-drawn style out of high-end galleries and directly onto the family Christmas tree.
Maker / Origin
Sticks was founded by Sarah Grant-Hutchison in Iowa, quickly growing into a celebrated studio known for its distinctive, narrative-driven furniture and decor featuring woodburning, painting, and inspirational words.
Condition & Value
The ornament appears to be in excellent vintage condition with no visible chips, paint loss, or cracks. The original paper hang tag is intact but shows some minor creasing, surface wear, and adhesive residue on the back, which is typical for its age.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.