The characters in Downton Abbey, the historical drama series set in the early 20th century, really saw a lot of history. From the global news of the sinking of the Titanic, to the First World War and the beginnings of the ultimate decline of the aristocracy in this country, the six seasons and two films covered a lot. Needless to say, that required a lot of props and costumes, and now — with the third and final film instalment, Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale, coming this September — the producers are auctioning off some of the items you may have seen on screen in the Downtown universe.
Dame Maggie Smith and Hugh Bonneville in Downtown Abbey.
Bonhams’ farewell exhibition and auction of many of the props, costumes and set pieces from across the series commences next month. The sale will run online from August 18-September 16, alongside a special exhibition taking place at Bonhams New Bond Street, London, which will be free and open to the public, meaning fans of the Golden Globe-winning series can come and view pieces of the show’s history in the flesh, before they are sold.
Among the items included are Michelle Dockery’s wedding dress and bouquet, as worn during Lady Mary’s wedding in season three; one of Jessica Brown Findlay’s costumes, as Lady Sybil, from season one; and the costume Lily James’s character Lady Rose wore to her 'Coming Out' ball in season four.
Also going under the hammer will be a dress of Dame Maggie Smith’s from season six, which she wore when playing Violet Crawley; a clapper board used in the production of the film Downton Abbey: A New Era; an autographed script from the first season of Downton Abbey; and — surely most exciting of all — the Downton Abbey bell wall.
The proceeds from the sale of items donated by Carnival Films will go to Together for Short Lives — a UK charity which supports children with life-limiting conditions and their families.
Charlie Thomas, of Bonhams, said: ‘Downton Abbey is an example of the very best of British television and filmmaking [...] and the costumes and props show the impressive attention to detail that brought the world to life on screen, making it so beloved by millions across the globe.’
Gareth Neame, the CEO of Carnival Films added: ‘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.’
For more information visit the Bonhams website
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