Vintage Painted Meat Safe Cabinet - Farmhouse Kitchen Cupboard, WWII Interest

Vintage Meat Safe Cabinet

Originating from an old farmhouse near Dorchester-on-Thames in Southern Oxfordshire.

Of simple country house construction from pine and ply, and painted in a hugely decorative kingfisher blue paint which has worn naturally over time to great effect.

Appears to be made from a US Air Force Crate, stencilled on the interior:

‘GAL. JETTISON FUEL FOR P38 OR P47 SERIES AIRPLANES, AND CONE KIT. ESTIMATED VALUE 100.00’

Both the Lockheed P-38 Lightning and the Republic P-47 Thunderbolt (AKA Jug) were fighter planes used in WWII by the US Air Force. There were a few bases used by the US Air Force in Oxfordshire during WWII, the closest to the Farmhouse being RAF Mount Farm, which was roughly a mile away. Presumably, this meat safe was knocked up on the Farm using an old, discarded crate from the base, as materials were in short supply and rationed. A real piece of wartime and social history from the period.

With all original hardware, including a bakelite handle.

Originally would have been used to store meat, with its mesh doors and sides keeping the flies out whilst allowing air to circulate around the contents.

Probably dating from the 1940s.

It is in good vintage condition, it is solid and sturdy, and all joints seem ok. There is cosmetic wear and imperfections throughout, which add to its charm and tell its story. There is a small amount of old woodworm present, which we have treated with a solvent-free treatment for good measure.

Approximate measurements: 64cm high x 64cm wide x 41cm deep.