Colin Firth’s white shirt from the 1995 BBC adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, which was wet when filmed, has fetched an impressive £20,000 ($AU39,000) at auction.
The shirt Firth wore as Mr Darcy in the memorable scene exceeded expectations at Kerry Taylor Auctions, doubling its estimated value of £10,000 ($AU19,400).
The total price, including a buyer’s premium, amounted to £25,000 ($AU49,000).
The scene where Mr Darcy emerges from a pond, captivating Elizabeth Bennet (Jennifer Ehle), remains a standout moment in British television history.
The infamous wet shirt as worn by Colin Firth in Pride and Prejudice on display at the “Lights Camera Auction” photocall at Kerry Taylor Auctions. (Photo by Eamonn M. McCormack/Getty Images)
Other notable lots in the auction was Madonna’s 1950s Christian Dior taffeta ball gown from the film Evita, which sold for £40,000 ($78,000) and Johnny Depp’s costumes from various films, including Sleepy Hollow and The Libertine, also garnered significant bids.
Proceeds from the auction benefit the Bright Foundation, an arts education charity established by renowned costume designer John Bright.
“My life’s work has been committed to costume design for film, TV and theatre, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been able to pursue this path,” Bright said.
“It is my firmly held belief that the arts and creativity can shape happier and healthier children and enable young people to reach their full potential.”
