Stunning Robert ‘Mouseman’ Thompson refectory coffee table in oak

Robert Thompson, born in 1876 dedicated his life to the craft of carving and joinery in English Oak. He taught himself to use the traditional tools and by 1919 he was experimenting with his own ideas for producing furniture based on the English styles of the 17th Century.

The famous mouse symbol, found on every item crafted by Robert Thompson’s has an uncertain history. The story told by Robert Thompson himself is that one of his craftsmen remarked that “We are all as poor as church mice” Whereupon Robert carved a mouse on the church screen he was working on. That particular mouse has never been found but it has continued as a trade mark of quality and dedication to craftsman ever since. Robert Thompson furniture is renowned throughout the world and is highly sought after.

This stunning piece of furniture has a rectangular hand adzed top, supported by two carved octagonal legs, joined by a single chamfered stretcher at floor level. It is in superb condition and is as solid as the day it was made. The oak has a gorgeous golden tone and beautiful grain. It is approximately fifty years old. And of course, it features the trademark mouse running up one of the legs.

Measures 3’0W x 1’3D x 1’5½”H (91.5cm x 38cm x 44.5cm). Collection only from Saltaire in West Yorkshire.