Ryedale Auctioneers of Kirkbymoorside are preparing for their latest sale which includes Mouseman and Squirrelman pieces
Among the pieces going under the hammer as part of the country house sale on March 31 are a Robert 'Mouseman' Thompson stool, bookends and light fitting, and a Wilf 'Squirrelman' Hutchinson bowl.
The oak furniture and household items are part of a group described as 'the Yorkshire Critters', the general name for all the furniture makers of Yorkshire many of whom originated through links with Robert "Mouseman" Thompson of Kilburn.
The quality of design, materials and workmanship is on a par with Mouseman items using distinctive animal-themed trademarks. Makers include Acornman, Beaverman, Catman, Cat and Mouseman, and Squirrelman,
A number of lots in the sale were made by ex Mouseman workshop employee Sid Pollard of Bagby, near Thirsk.
Sid was one of Thompson's early apprentices, together with his brother. His solo work is almost always unmarked, preferring to let his craftsmanship speak for itself. After leaving Thompson's he combined his solo work with the family building firm, Pollard Builders. His solo work dates from the late 40s through to his death.
His work is highly collectable due to his quality finishes, which include the ‘adzing’ technique, and panelled details.
Ryedale Auctioneers was established in 2010 by Angus Ashworth.
Angus stars in the TV series The Yorkshire Auction House and Antiques Road Trip and has become known as 'The Yorkshire Auctioneer'.
He said: "We have a bureau by Sid Pollard - he didn't use a signature but his handcrafted pieces are also very collectable. We are always looking for more pieces like this."
Over 500 items will be going under the hammer at the auction, with items including a single owner collection of Leica cameras features in the sale which is expected to sell for around £10,000.
Other lots include a Chinese Duan stone brush washer which is estimated to go for between £2,000 to £4,000 and a 19th century oil painting of Helias in a chariot with classical maidens.
The sales room is open for viewing on Wednesday, March 130 0am-4pm
For more information go to https://www.ryedaleauctioneers.com/
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