Robert ‘Mousey’ Thompson remains one of England’s most celebrated furniture makers, famous for his signature carved mouse hidden on every handcrafted piece. From grand altars to humble cheeseboards (plus everything in between!), each item exudes the charm of the Arts & Crafts era. Mouseman Furniture is highly sought after today, which is a a testament to his pieces’ incredible craftsmanship and stunning design.
Robert Thompson: The Man Behind the Mouse
Born and raised in Kilburn, Yorkshire, Robert Thompson (1876-1955) followed in his father’s footsteps as a carpenter and stonemason. His workshop thrived, employing around 30 local craftsmen at its peak.
Inspired by 17th-century English furniture, Thompson rejected modern machinery in favor of ancient hand tools and techniques. His revival of craftsmanship in the 1920s contributed to a renewed appreciation for artisanal work in an age of mass production.
According to Wikipedia, the mouse motif is said to have originated in 1919 when Thompson, in conversation with a colleague about being “poor as a church mouse,” decided to carve a mouse into a piece of furniture. From then on, the cheeky mouse became his signature trademark, symbolizing handcrafted quality and authenticity.
Today, Mouseman furniture remains prized for its exceptional craftsmanship and functional beauty. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted at Thompson’s Yorkshire workshop, using a medieval tool called an ‘adze’. This technique involves cutting the wood against the grain at an angle, creating a distinctive scalloped texture that, when waxed, produces a brilliant sheen. The use of solid English oak ensures that every piece is not only beautiful, but is built to last for generations.
Authenticity and Identifying Genuine Mouseman Pieces
Due to the increasing value of Mouseman furniture, buyers should be careful of reproductions. Authentic pieces feature a hand-carved mouse, while counterfeit versions may have an applied mouse instead.
Additionally, Mouseman furniture from the 1930s often features slimmer mice with delicate ears (which often broke off). Later designs have a broader neck and flatter ears for durability.
Other “Critters”
Many of Thompson’s apprentices later established their own workshops and signature carvings. These talented artisans continued Thompson’s tradition, creating fine furniture marked with their own unique carved emblems, including:
- Alan ‘Acornman’ Grainger
- Don ‘Foxman’ Craven
- Peter ‘Rabbitman’ Heap
- Thomas ‘Gnomeman’ Whittaker
- Wilf ‘Squirrelman’ Hutchinson
- Derek ‘Lizardman’ Slater
- Albert ‘Eagleman’ Jeffray
- Shaw & Riley ‘The Seahorsemen of Hessay’
Mouseman Furniture Today: Sustainability and Quality
Thompson’s workshop continues to uphold a strong commitment to sustainability, sourcing oak from managed forestry estates. These trees, often over 200 years old, hold immense historical value. Each piece is handcrafted by a single artisan, ensuring that the quality.
The craftsmanship and exclusivity of Mouseman furniture contribute to its high value, both as an investment and a treasured heirloom. Below are some examples of current pricing for pieces handcrafted at Robert Thompson’s Craftsmen Ltd.
- Solid Oak Refectory Dining Table (10’L) – £14,200.00
- Solid Oak Panel Back Arm Chair – £1,525.00
- Solid Oak Welsh Dresser (4’0″W) – £8,500.00
- Solid Oak Drinks Display Cupboard (3’0″W) – £6,275.00
- Solid Oak Writing Desk (2’10″W) – £6,520.00
- Solid Oak Paneled Bedstead (6’W) – £5,460.00
- Solid Oak Wall Mirror (3’6″W x 2’0″H) – £1,680.00
- Solid Oak Dinner Wagon (2’10″W) – £1,240.00
- Solid Oak Paneled Firescreen (1’8½”W) – £1,420.00
- Hat & Coat Stand (5’11” H) – £4,360.00
- Solid Oak Magazine Rack (1’5″W) – £1,250.00
- Solid Oak Nest of Three Tables (2’0″W) – £1,620.00
- Solid Oak Pen Tray (11½”W) – £650.00
- Solid Oak Jewelry Box (1’0″W) – £1,965.00
- Solid Oak Fruit Bowl (1’0″Dia) – £315.00
Beyond newly built pieces, check auction houses and online sellers such as 1st Dibs, eBay, and even Etsy for lovely vintage options.
And, pieces are also still occasionally available “in the wild.” So, sharp eyed vintage and antiques lovers may spy a stool, cupboard, or bowl at a car boot sale, estate sale, or even a flea market. Happy hunting!
For more information and some wonderfully inspirational images, visit Homes and Antiques.
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Since 2009, Susan Said… WHAT?! has been your guide to real style for the way you live, from fabulous fashion and accessories, to gorgeous gardens and stunning interiors, plus the latest products and tips for throwing parties, weddings, and events of all kinds. Susan Conforte McNeill is an author, entrepreneur and the co-founder of the literacy organization Success Won’t Wait!
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