Bureau, ca. 1949, London, Maple & Co, oak

Bureau veneered in oak on a carcase of plywood, the edges outlined in ebonized mouldings, the oak veneers quartered. The bureau is raised on a low plinth with four tapering feet. The bureau base is fitted with double doors enclosing a shelf, below a single drawer. The top half of the bureau hinges down to provide the writing surface, supported on metal stays. The upper section is fitted with two drawers, with a 'secret drawer' just above the writing surface, and with open pigeonholes.

Given by Mr I.F. Radford

The Utility Furniture Scheme was begun in 1942 by the Board of Trade as a means of rationing the production and consumption of furniture. The Scheme was an historically unprecedented example of government regulation of furniture design and production. It represented what many saw as a practical effort to regulate the use by manufacturers of basic raw materials, wood and petrol especially, that would be in great demand during the war. The scheme ended in 1952.

This bureau was made by Maples between 1948 and 1950 and was classed as Utility. It was sold as being in the New Zealand manner, as featured in the New Zealand State House in Wellington. It was also shown in the Ideal Home Exhibition for 1950.

Certain additions have been made, notably a ‘secret drawer’ for one pound notes, located just above the main writing surface, and activated by lifting a screw head at the back of the recess above the two small drawers. The drawer is closed by simply pushing it until it clicks. Also added were the pull, lock, and ball catches on the drop front. Such additions or modifications to Utility furniture are not uncommon.

Shown in the Ideal Home Exhibition in 1950.

The Utility Furniture Scheme was begun in 1942 by the Board of Trade as a means of rationing the production and consumption of furniture, and regulating the use of basic raw materials that would be in great demand during the war. The scheme ended in 1952.

This bureau was sold as being in the New Zealand manner, as featured in the New Zealand State House in Wellington. It was also shown in the Ideal Home Exhibition in London in 1950. A special feature on this bureau is a 'secret drawer' for £1 notes, located just above the main writing surface. It is opened by lifting a screw head at the back of the recess above the two small drawers and closed by simply pushing it until it clicks. Also added were the pull, lock, and ball catches on the drop front. Additions or modifications to Utility furniture are not uncommon.

W.4-1983