James Rattee

James Rattee (1820 – 29 March 1855) was an English woodcarver and mason, especially noted for his skill in church ornamentation and restoration, for which his services were sought worldwide.

From Thomas Thorp, William Hodge Mill, F. A. Paley, and other members of the society, he received assistance and patronage.

In the choir of Ely Cathedral he carried out the designs of George Gilbert Scott, and the oak screen, stalls, organ-case, and restored tomb of Bishop William de Luda or Louth (d. 1298) were exquisitely wrought.

This was composed of choice stone and alabaster, enriched with carving and inlaid with gold and gems; it is one of the finest specimens of ecclesiastical art executed in England since the Reformation.

Despite his early death, Rattee's work is found in upwards of a thousand churches in all quarters of the world.