Robert Thompson (mouseman) - occasional table

brocher · 2025-02-12T15:49:52+0000

Hi, I have a genuine question about my Mouseman table. We bought this back in late 1970s direct from his workshop/showroom in Kilburn. We haven't used it much and it's been a bit neglected, kept in a cold place unfortunately. We now want to bring it back into use, but have found quite a few stains and blotches not just on the top but also on the legs and stretcher, and the feet. I haven't tried anything yet to remove the stains (if that is possible) or clean it up.

I have attached loads of photos.

But I was wondering if anyone had some advice about what I could do.

I haven't yet spoken to Robert Thompson's about the table, so I thought I would start here.

Any thoughts very welcome.

Jacob · 2025-02-12T16:22:52+0000

Looks like what you might get with iron and damp oak. Any grindstones in the vicinity?
Oxalic acid might do it.

brocher · 2025-02-12T16:24:15+0000

Jacob said:
Looks like what you might get with iron and damp oak. Any grindstones in the vicinity?
Oxalic acid might do it.

No, But it was stored upstairs in our loft space! Ooops.

Jacob · 2025-02-12T16:28:23+0000

There's lots on here if you search back https://www.ukworkshop.co.uk/search/1998536/?q=oxalic+acid&o=relevance

brocher · 2025-02-12T16:32:24+0000

Jacob said:
There's lots on here if you search back https://www.ukworkshop.co.uk/search/1998536/?q=oxalic+acid&o=relevance

Thanks Jacob, I will have a look at that.

johnnyb · 2025-02-12T20:37:08+0000

These were finished in wax on the undercarriage and ronseal varnish on tops.

johnnyb · 2025-02-12T20:43:05+0000

I'd suggest white spirit and some plastic wire wool on the undercarriage. Paint stripper on the top. Then consider oxalic acid(or bar keepers friend powder) these weren't truly durable finishes tbh and needed maintenance in general use. It was matt or satin varnish. Of course these would be sprayed in ac lacquer normally but it does tend to make things look shoppy!