It’s a warm and bittersweet moment for all the Downton Abbey lovers out there. As we gear up for the launch of the highly anticipated third movie, an auction of iconic props reminds us that a beloved chapter of TV history is coming to an end.
Created by the talented Julian Fellowes, this British series first graced our screens in 2010. The storyline follows the Crawley family, with the Earl of Grantham at its helm, kicking off just after the tragic sinking of the RMS Titanic in 1912. Spanning six seasons and a total of 52 episodes, the show wrapped up in 1925 but has continued to capture hearts, successfully leading to two feature-length films, the first released in 2019. Now, 15 years post-debut, the grand finale, aptly named The Grand Finale, is set to premiere tomorrow.
But that’s not all—the auction at Bonhams in London, which runs until September 16th, is bringing excitement to fans everywhere. With 120 unique props officially on the block, there’s plenty to get excited about. For instance, the illustrious Grantham family car, a fabulous 1925 Sunbeam, has historical significance, having appeared from Season 2 onward and in all three films.
Wardrobe lovers will also find treasures like the three-piece morning suit worn by Jim Carter as Carson and a gorgeous blue silk dress that belonged to Michelle Dockery as Lady Mary.
What really gets the fans buzzing, though, are the bigger items like the iconic bell wall, seen in the first season, which symbolizes the dynamic between the household’s residents, and a stunning oak dresser, complete with an assortment of kitchen props crafted by the art department to remain in line with the authentic feel of the show.
As bids are currently rolling in, many items are fetching considerably more than expected. For instance, the bell wall’s bids have skyrocketed to a whopping £24,000—almost four times its starting estimate of £5,000–£7,000. Likewise, the current prediction for Michelle Dockery’s wedding dress stands at over £3,000. However, keep an eye out for lesser-known gems, like a large Victorian cupboard from Season 4, which can be snagged for as low as £550—what a steal!
100% of the auction proceeds are going toward Together for Short Lives, a commendable charity that focuses on children facing life-limiting conditions in the UK. Don’t forget that alongside the auction, there’s a free exhibit celebrating the rich history and memorabilia of Downton Abbey!
