Here we have for sale a rare and early pair of fully adzed Robert “Mouseman” Thompson bookends. Both sport the signature mouse with the earlier “heart shape” tails, which dates them into the 1940s. They are both in very good original condition and have been given a very light clean and nourished and protected by the application of several coats of Gilboy’s beeswax polish, which is a 100% organic and natural product. The grain on both matches when placed side by side, which shows that they are a natural pair carved from a single block of wood, as does the matching patination. The golden medulary rays to the side of each radiate out to add a touch of distinction and show they were carved from the very best part of the tree. To note they may have been dropped at some time in the past as there are a couple of nicks and nibbles to the edges of the rims and the tail of one mouse has had a small bash. It is not unusual to find earlier Mouseman pieces with older minor damage as they were made some 80 years ago, in a time when Mouseman was made to be used, not consigned to display cabinets. Likely these fell off the desk years ago, or something similar. The damage is minor and to be expected from pieces that have been regularly handled, nevertheless needs pointing out. (I have tried to show this in close up on the last two of the photos, so please view them carefully, along with all the others, to see condition). They are a lovely colour, medium fumed with a rich dark aged patina. The mice are pleasantly plump, animated and very skillfully carved. These earlier made bookends rarely come onto the market and are desirable, sought after collectors’ items. Dimensions are each H15.1cm x W9cm x D9.1cm approx. Please view all the photos carefully.
