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Known for his distinctive hand-carved oak creations, Thompson’s work embodies the enduring appeal of traditional English craftsmanship. Each piece is instantly recognisable by the small carved mouse that became his signature.
Working from his workshop in Kilburn, North Yorkshire, Thompson developed a style that blended medieval inspiration with the ideals of the Arts and Crafts movement. He believed in honest workmanship, using only solid English oak and simple hand tools to create pieces that were both functional and beautifully detailed. he developed an early fascination with timber and the character it revealed under skilled hands. Rather than following industrial trends of the early 20th century, Thompson chose a path of handcrafted integrity, creating work that celebrated the natural beauty and strength of English oak.
His now-famous mouse motif is said to have originated in the 1920s, after alight-hearted remark about “being as poor as a church mouse.” From then on, the mouse became a symbol of his humility, humour, and individuality.
Our upcoming auction features an excellent selection of Mouseman pieces, including candlesticks, bowls, an ashtray, bookends, and trays. Of particular note is a rare and unusual pair of triple-mice bookends, finely carved, angular in form with arcaded tops above curved sides, and featuring two climbing mice with a third appearing playfully through side holes. These bookends present a rare opportunity for collectors to acquire an exceptional example of Mouseman craftsmanship, seldom seen on the open market.
These charming and characterful works by Robert ‘Mouseman’ Thompson will be offered for sale at Aubreys on Thursday the 30th of October 2025, a great opportunity for collectors and admirers of fine English craftsmanship.
