History of Lambs of Manchester
Lambs of Manchester: A Legacy in British Cabinet Making
Founded by James Lamb around 1840, Lambs of Manchester emerged as one of the most successful British cabinet makers of the late nineteenth century. Known for their exceptional craftsmanship, they collaborated with several notable designers, enhancing their reputation in the field of furniture design.
Notable Collaborations and Exhibitions
Lambs of Manchester showcased the work of designers like W.J. Estall at the London Exhibition of 1862, Bruce Talbert, Charles Bevan, and the French designer Hugues Protat. Their collaboration with Alfred Waterhouse for the Manchester Assize Courts was notably displayed in Paris in 1867 and 1878. The firm’s commitment to quality earned them numerous accolades at various International Exhibitions.
Clientele and Design Influence
Catering to the burgeoning middle classes and the elite of Manchester, Lambs’ reputation quickly spread, leading to a broader clientele. Although the loss of their factory and records to a fire has limited historical information, the furniture produced by Lambs was at the forefront of the Gothic Revival, Aesthetic, and Anglo-Japanese Periods.
Transition and Legacy
In 1899, Lambs was taken over by Goodhall and Heighway, forming Goodhall, Lambs and Heighway. Despite this transition, the legacy of Lambs of Manchester in British cabinet making endures, celebrated for their innovative designs and superior craftsmanship.
Researched and written by Tony Geering.