Albert Hoffman

1915–1993, American

Tags: Sculpture

Born in Philadelphia, Albert Hoffman left school after the sixth grade and worked at his father’s fish market in Atlantic City, New Jersey. While working as a furniture upholsterer’s assistant, he learned the foundations of wood carving. He later worked for a cedar chest manufacturer, further honing his woodworking skills. Shortly after the bombing of Pearl Harbor in 1941, Hoffman joined the U.S. Navy and was injured in battle. While recuperating at home, he carved small animals from soap. Later, while operating a junk shop in New Jersey, he began making art in earnest. His subject matter includes scenes of daily life and religious and biblical themes.