Home > Historic > World War I and II > Medals and decorations
Mural decorations in the Vauxhall British Restaurant during the Second World War
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Mural decorations in the Vauxhall British Restaurant during the Second World War
Mural decorations in the Vauxhall British Restaurant during the Second World War, on the theme of Vauxhall Gardens and carried out by E. K. Edney. Picture on the right shows a detail of the mural while the left photograph shows the interior of the restaurant and the pictures in situ on the wall. British Restaurants were communal restaurants during the Second World War providing a cooked meal, with dessert and a cup of tea or coffee, for around the cost of 1s.2d. While operated on a canteen basis, meals were eaten at a table and allowed people, including war workers and those who had bombed out of their homes or might have difficulty cooking or making a packed lunch at home, a nutritious and affordable meal, which could be eaten in addition to wartime rations. Many restaurants were decorated inside with murals as a way to make the surroundings pleasant. Date: 1946
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 19806123
© Mary Evans Picture Library
Décor Eating Jan20 Meal Ministry Mural Murals Rationing Restaurant Restaurants Vauxhall Walls
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the Mural decorations in the Vauxhall British Restaurant during the Second World War, a testament to the creativity and resilience of the British people during a time of hardship. Located in London, the restaurant was one of many communal dining halls established to provide a cooked meal, dessert, and a cup of tea or coffee for around 1s.2d, a significant discount for those who could barely afford to make ends meet. With rationing in effect and many homes destroyed by bombings, these restaurants offered a nutritious and affordable alternative to the meager wartime rations. The interior of the Vauxhall British Restaurant, as shown in the left photograph, was adorned with murals created by the talented artist E. K. Edney. The theme of Vauxhall Gardens, a popular recreational area in London, was chosen to bring a sense of beauty and tranquility to the communal dining space. The detail of the mural on the right, with its vibrant colors and intricate designs, showcases Edney's skill and artistic vision. British Restaurants were operated on a canteen basis but still allowed diners to sit at tables and enjoy their meals in a more civilized setting. The murals, like the one in the Vauxhall British Restaurant, were a thoughtful touch that added to the overall ambiance and made the surroundings more pleasant for those who sought refuge from the harsh realities of the war. This photograph, taken in 1946, offers a glimpse into the past and serves as a reminder of the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the British people during the Second World War. The murals in the Vauxhall British Restaurant, and others like it, not only provided a temporary escape from the daily struggles but also contributed to the morale and spirit of the community during a time of great adversity.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
