Lamb of Manchester Ebonised and Ormolu Side Cabinet

Lamb of Manchester Ebonised and Ormolu Side Cabinet

A superb example of exhibition quality Victorian cabinet furniture, this Lamb of Manchester ebonised and ormolu side cabinet encapsulates the sophisticated elegance of late 19th-century English design. With its striking contrast of rich amboyna and ebonised finishes, the piece exudes both luxury and refined taste, making it a statement suite for discerning interiors.

Origin: England, attributed to Lamb of Manchester
Date: Circa 1880
Material: Amboyna wood, ebonised finish, gilt ormolu mounts

Dimensions: Height: 109 cm (43 ins); Width: 182 cm (71.5 ins); Depth: 44.5 cm (17.5 ins)

Condition: Excellent patina with only minor expected restorations

Crafted during the height of the Victorian era, this display hutch draws inspiration from the prestigious output of notable English cabinetmakers such as Lamb of Manchester. Similar high-standard pieces are seen in leading collections and museums, revered for the marriage of opulent materials and masterful craftsmanship. The use of ormolu mounts and ebonised surfaces reflects a fashionable aesthetic favoured by the elite during the period, linking this side cabinet to the traditions of the finest Victorian decorative arts.

Notable Features:

• Exceptional quality amboyna veneer paired with ebonised detailing, providing arresting contrast and depth
• Lavish gilt ormolu mounts accenting the framework, exemplifying the era’s appreciation for French influence in English cabinet furniture
• Graceful proportions enhanced by Regency symmetry and subtle Neoclassical references in the decoration
• Attributed to Lamb of Manchester, one of the most celebrated English makers of the day, adding historical value and cachet for collectors
• Robust yet elegant form, ideal for displaying treasured items or fine china within its spacious interior

The rarity and refined presentation of this ebonised and ormolu side cabinet ensure it holds enduring collecting value, particularly for enthusiasts of 19th-century English furniture or those seeking to add a focal point to a sophisticated home. With its exhibition quality and classic Victorian style, it is as suitable for prominent display in a drawing room or hallway as it is for inclusion in a serious period furniture collection. This piece blends practical utility with enduring investment appeal—a true testament to the artistry of Lamb of Manchester and the enduring allure of the Victorian era.