Midcentury 1960s Oak G Plan Cabinet Bureau by VB Wilkins
A seldom seen bureau / secretaire desk designed by Victor Wilkins as part of his 1950’s light oak Brandon range for E Gomme’s G Plan. The range continued production up to the late sixties but this particular piece is a rarity, most likely only made briefly before it evolved into something else. At a glance, it’s a smart, compact cupboard you would think perhaps designed for the kitchen or dining room, but when you open the top drawer, a neat, discreet desk is revealed. The drawer front folds down to create a small desktop and there are cubby holes for stationary and organisation. The lower double door cupboard gives further storage space. A very clever design, ideal for occasional home-working or for a student perhaps. The light oak makes a welcome change from the usual midcentury teak and the design is classic and timeless, neutral enough to mix in with pieces from other eras.
Description
This is an original, vintage piece that is ‘sold as seen’. It is in good – very good, used condition. We have thoroughly cleaned the cabinet inside and out, and the external top surface has been sanded, oiled and wax-polished as it has sustained some heavy wear to the original finish. A partial restoration of sorts. A natural beeswax polish was applied to the remaining external surfaces. All handles are securely attached and all hinges and closures are in very good working order. In the lower cupboard is a fixed shelf. The top drawer pulls out and the front folds down, extending to create the desk. All interiors are clean and tidy. There is light wear and tear, minor scuffs and marks here and there, commensurate with its age and function. It’s really well-made as you would expect from a quality G Plan piece. There are no repairs or areas of concern. The E Gomme stamp can be seen inside the door.
Dimensions
H: 85cm / W: 76.5cm / D: 46cm / H to Bottom of Desk: 67cm