James Lamb (cabinetmaker)
James Lamb (born c. 1839, died 1924) was a Scottish-American cabinetmaker and furniture designer known for his elaborate, highly-carved Victorian furniture. He emigrated from Scotland to the United States around 1856, settling initially in New York City. He later established a successful furniture manufacturing business, James Lamb & Co., which operated from the late 19th century into the early 20th century.
Lamb's work is characterized by the use of rich, dark woods, such as mahogany and rosewood, and intricate carvings incorporating naturalistic motifs including flowers, leaves, and birds. His furniture designs often included elements borrowed from Gothic Revival, Renaissance Revival, and Eastlake styles, blending them into a unique and distinctive aesthetic. Lamb’s company produced a wide range of furniture pieces, including cabinets, sideboards, tables, chairs, and beds, often commissioned by wealthy clients.
While not as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries, such as the Herter Brothers, Lamb’s furniture is now highly sought after by collectors for its craftsmanship, artistic merit, and historical significance as representative of the late Victorian era. His work can be found in museums and private collections. Limited biographical information is available regarding Lamb's personal life and the early years of his career.