Vignette 144: Horace Lamb's rose bowl

The rose bowl, on display in the Mitchell Building, is a reminder of the impact and contributions of Sir Horace Lamb (1849–1934), who excelled in teaching, yet also played a pivotal role in shaping the academic and administrative framework of the University.

Lamb, born in England, arrived in South Australia in March 1876 in time for the University’s inauguration. Lamb was one of our first four professors, and the first Elder Professor of Mathematics. He lectured in pure and applied mathematics and gave instruction in practical physics.

In 1885, the University granted Lamb leave to return to England, where he accepted an appointment as Professor of Mathematics at Owens College in Manchester, a post he held until he retired. When he left, his colleagues and students thanked him with the following words: ‘Your ready and generous assistance in times of difficulty, and the kind interest you have always shown in our welfare, have become bywords to us who in the pursuance of our studies have come under your care’. In 1898, his successor, Sir William Bragg, purchased and gifted Lamb a rose bowl, made of parcel gilt and silver, and crafted in George II style, in honour of his service.

Lady Nicholson, Lamb’s daughter, donated the bowl to the University, via the late Professor Ren Potts in 1965, as a reminder of Lamb’s time in Adelaide.

The University of Adelaide: 150 Years of Making History.  Preserving a legacy.  p.192