A Bronze Mouse Corkscrew with Forged Iron Auger by Richard Rohac

Rare and highly desirable Viennese bronze corkscrew in the form of a mouse, with forged iron auger, by Richard Rohac (1906–1956), Austrian designer and master metal craftsman. Rohac trained under Hagenauer Werkstätte in Vienna, completing his apprenticeship and working there for nine years before establishing his own business in 1932. Much of his early output was lost during WWII, and pieces from the immediate post-war period are especially sought after. This example is in excellent condition with no damage or losses, showing a warm aged patina to the bronze and a well-preserved auger retaining most of its chrome. The mouse is clearly hallmarked “Made in Austria” along with Rohac’s distinctive “backward R/forward R” maker’s mark, dating it to the late 1940s when his workshop reopened and began exporting internationally through Gebr. Gödde. Rohac’s designs were later celebrated worldwide, including state gifts and international exhibitions. Dimensions: overall length 11.5cm; mouse body 5.5cm long x 3.5cm high x 1.8cm deep; weight 96g. Richard Rohac, Vienna, circa 1948.