A very fine oak desk by James Lamb of Manchester. Nine mahogany lined drawers with 6 small drawers and two cupboard doors to the top. Signed Lamb Manchester on centre drawer. This desk is in superb original condition, having no restoration except repolishing and a new leather. The desk was apparently made for the Headmaster of a private school. The small drawers still bear the handwritten 19th century labels stating: "Correspondence with Parents", "Correspondence with Teachers, Terms and Conditions", Correspondence with Trade", "Health certificates", etc. This is a wonderful desk and a piece of social history. The cabinet maker James Lamb was established in Manchester in 1843 and his firm quickly gained a reputation for the high quality workmanship and materials employed. Lamb profited from a wealthy clientele in Manchester and other prosperous towns in the North of England. His furniture was praised at several international exhibitions, including Paris 1867 and again in 1878 when a Gold Medal was received. Dimensions: 56.1/4" x 32.1/2" x H 42.1/2" Working H 30.1/4" Price: £3,450 Stock no: 4539