A Thomas 'Gnomeman' Whittaker stool with exquisitely carved signature gnome - circa 1960s. The stool has one of the best carved signature gnomes that I've seen on a Gnomeman piece in quite a while. It has even been carved with a smile. According to an article written by Frederick Jukes about Thomas Whittaker (for The Yorkshire Dalesman - see picture above), Whittaker carved smiles and frowns on the faces of his gnomes depending on what day of the week it was: "If they were carved on a Monday they would be frowning, but if they were carved on a Friday they would be smiling". If that's true, then this stool was definitely carved on a Friday judging by this gnome's gleeful face. 
 
The top of the stool measures 45.5 cm x 29 cm. The height is 37 cm. It is quite a heavy stool, so probably best to be delivered via courier. The overall condition is good. The pegs are light in colour, so may have been replaced. There's an old repair to the base. At first glance it looks like a fine crack, but on close inspection, a part of the bottom of the base has been broken off and re-fixed back on, not too noticeable, but should be pointed out (see picture). The stool also has some faint staining, a few small old cracks, and a dark ring mark to the top, all in line with over 60 years of use. Overall, it's a lovely, rustic, well carved piece. Even the bottom of the base has been tooled, which is a treat to see. All carved with love... probably on a Friday.
 
Thomas 'Gnomeman' Whittaker (1910 - 1991) was a craftsman based in North Yorkshire. He was heavily influenced by Robert 'Mouseman' Thompson. His designs are based on Mouseman pieces, but they tend to be a bit more rustic in their style. He was inspired to use the gnome to sign his pieces as, according to legend, a gnome is born each time an acorn germinates, and it will guard the oak tree throughout its life. Gnomeman pieces have become highly sought after since his death, some commanding higher prices than Mouseman pieces because of their rarity.