Since 2010, the story of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants has captivated viewers worldwide, first across six series, then in two feature films, with a third arriving this month. Anticipated as a major cinematic event, Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale will, as its title suggests, bring Julian Fellowes’ saga, which began in 1912, to a close.
London auction house Bonhams is now giving fans the chance to secure a lasting piece of the series. In its online sale, Downton Abbey: The Auction, bids can be placed on a wide range of costumes and props until September 16.
The 267 lots are led by the Grantham family car, a 1925 Sunbeam 20/60hp saloon that appeared in series two to five and all three films.
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From the start, Downton Abbey, which attracted an audience of 120 million worldwide, was produced with a strong commitment to detail. Everything had to appear authentic, from filming at Highclere Castle, the family seat of the Earl and Countess of Grantham and their daughters, to the sets at Ealing Studios in London, especially the kitchen where Mrs Patmore famously presided with her wooden spoon.
Charlie Thomas, Bonhams UK Group Director for House Sales and Private & Iconic Collections, said: "Downton Abbey is an example of the very best of British television and filmmaking, and we are delighted to be offering the props and costumes from this landmark series. Downton Abbey is an exceptionally well-researched piece of storytelling on aristocratic society in the early 20th Century, and the costumes and props show the impressive attention to detail that brought the world to life on screen and making it so beloved by millions across the globe."
Particular attention was paid to costumes that reflected social change. Highlights include Lady Mary’s wedding dress from Season 3, Lady Sybil’s daring harem-style trouser outfit from the Season 1, Lady Edith’s elegant peacock dress from Season 4, Lady Rose’s debutante gown, and a pale blue dress worn by Dame Maggie Smith in her role as the Dowager Countess.
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Among the props, the bell board, used by the Crawleys to summon their servants, holds a special place. It even appeared briefly in the opening credits. The auction also features the gong, an original late 19th- or early 20th-century piece, which was used in the second film to call the family to dinner.
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Other notable items include the script of the very first episode, signed by Dame Maggie Smith, Jim Carter, Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery and Phyllis Logan, as well as a clapperboard from the filming of Downton Abbey: A New Era.
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Proceeds from items provided by production company Carnival Films will go to Together for Short Lives, a charity supporting children with life-threatening illnesses and their families.
Gareth Neame, Executive Producer and CEO of Carnival Films, said: "The world of Downton Abbey is beloved around the globe for its rich, timeless storytelling. These iconic set items hold a special place in that history, and we are proud to see them help support the vital work of Together for Short Lives."
An exhibition of the auction is currently being held at Bonhams on New Bond Street, London. Tickets, unsurprisingly, are already sold out.
Browse all the lots from the Downton Abbey auction in Bonhams’ catalogue!
