A ‘Librenza’ room divider and cabinet from G Plan’s Tola and Black range. Librenza is listed in G Plan’s 1962 catalogue as model number 881; with the model featured in a Radio Times advert as early as 1956. Made in High Wycombe, England, by E. Gomme.

Room divider is tola (African mahogany) veneer on engineered board, in a light oak and black finish; its sides feature moulded, solid tola fitted around the board veneer. The shelves are ebonised, with the smaller middle shelves being adjustable. The Librenza has a fall front middle cabinet, with original brass, cast. drop handles. The lower cupboard compartment is enclosed by sliding removable doors, revealing an internal shelf, and features recessed brass handles. The whole piece is raised on ebonised legs.

The name ‘Librenza’ was devised by Doris Gundry (working within J Walter Thompson advertising agency) and is a combination of ‘library’ and ‘cadenza’, reflecting the design concept. Doris Gundry was also the architect of the name ‘G Plan’ as well as their early slogans.

Models from G Plan’s Tola and Black range first appeared in catalogues from 1956 and continued to be sold well into and through the 1960s. The range featured the use of the wood tola (African mahogany), ebonised wood and brass fittings.

Room divider is waiting to be restored in our restoration workshop. Photos are of an identical Model 881 Librenza, and not of the exact piece for sale.

Whilst this piece is in great condition, it is vintage, and as such has patination commensurate with its age.

For more details on E Gomme and G Plan click here, for dimensions click through to the details tab...