May 26, 2025 Emma Dastur

What Makes Mouseman Furniture So Valuable?

Mouseman furniture, crafted by Robert Thompson of Kilburn, North Yorkshire, has earned a reputation among collectors and connoisseurs for its quality, charm, and remarkable craftsmanship. But what exactly is it that makes these beautiful oak pieces, with their signature carved mouse, so valuable?

In this article, we take a deeper look at the story, materials, and unique characteristics that define Mouseman furniture, and why so many people continue to pay a premium for it today.

The story behind the Mouse

The origins of Mouseman furniture lie in the Arts and Crafts movement of the early 20th century. Robert Thompson, a master cabinetmaker, founded his workshop in the 1920s. He believed in simple, honest craftsmanship and high-quality materials. He developed a distinctive style centred around solid English oak and traditional joinery techniques.

What began as a humorous addition (a small carved mouse) soon became his signature. Over time, the mouse carving became not only a mark of authenticity, but also a powerful symbol of the Thompson legacy. It continues to be hand-carved on every piece made by his workshop today.

Why we love Mouseman furniture so much

Mouseman furniture isn’t just well made, it’s steeped in tradition. Each piece is hand-crafted using air-dried, quarter-sawn English oak, a timber known not only for its strength but also for its rich, distinctive grain. The wood is worked using traditional tools, and the surface is often finished with adzing, a time-honoured technique that leaves a rippled texture you can feel under your fingertips. It’s a level of craftsmanship that was never rushed or compromised.

Design-wise, these pieces follow the principles of the Arts and Crafts movement: functional, beautifully proportioned, and built to endure. While other styles come and go, Mouseman designs feel timeless. You’ll find them in medieval manor houses and modern homes alike - proof that good design doesn’t age.

Then there’s the mouse itself. That tiny carved figure started as a whimsical nod to hard work and humility, but over time it’s become something far more unique. Every mouse is special. Collectors will often be able to tell the approximate age of a piece just by how the mouse was carved. It’s a signature, a stamp of authenticity, and for many, the reason they fell in love with Mouseman furniture in the first place.

Part of what makes Mouseman so valuable is its family heritage. The workshop has remained family-run for more than a century, with each generation continuing the same traditional methods that Robert Thompson started back in the 1920s. Because production has always been small-scale, pieces are relatively rare - and when they come with a known history or original paperwork, their value can rise dramatically, by hundreds or even thousands of pounds.

Here are some excellent examples of Mouseman items and furniture:

Mouseman ashtray

Mouseman cheese board

Mouseman table and chairs

Mouseman dresser

How much is my Mouseman furniture worth?

Valuations vary depending on age, condition and provenance, but Mouseman furniture continues to be in demand.

Smaller pieces such as oak stools, trays, and bookends typically sell from £300 to £700
Mid-sized items like monk’s chairs, coffee tables and bedside cupboards can range from £1,000 to £4,000
Larger or rarer pieces like dining suites, early wardrobes, or custom commissions can command anywhere from £5,000 to £20,000+

The best way to understand what your piece is worth is to have it professionally appraised. At PM Antiques & Collectables, we provide a quotation, offering a fair price and straight-forward sale.