Downton Abbey, produced by Carnival Films, which is part of Universal International Studios, is renowned for its exquisite period detail and the artistry and authenticity of its costumes and props.

The recent auction and exhibition at Bonhams, where these iconic pieces found new life beyond the screen, is more than a celebration of a beloved drama. It’s a showcase of best practice in asset management and a demonstration of why preserving these creative achievements matters.

We are proud to store and track some of Downton Abbey’s iconic assets, across multiple series and films, working closely with Carnival Films and Focus Features to ensure their preservation and legacy.

 

Preserving craft and creativity beyond the shoot

When a production wraps, what follows is often a whirlwind and presents the challenge of packing, cataloguing and storing an overwhelming volume of physical assets. The meticulous work of crew across departments can all too easily be boxed up and forgotten in a dusty warehouse, with little thought for the future. Yet what the Downton Abbey auction reveals is the enormous cultural, historic and financial value held in each carefully crafted gown, prop and set dressing.

Importantly, not every asset from a production is destined for sale or auction, nor should it be. With proper tracking systems in place, productions have the clarity and control to decide the right future for every asset. Whether it’s reuse on another project, donation to a community group, or placement in an exhibition. This proactive approach means that valuable materials can continue to serve new purposes, and nothing needs to end up in landfill simply because it’s been forgotten or misplaced after a shoot.

Thanks to robust asset management from the beginning, multiple Downton Abbey creations were catalogued and stored to professional standards. This enabled not just preservation, but genuine celebration.

 

Asset management: from set to auction (and everywhere in between)

Using our asset management platform AssetFlow – productions can track costumes, props, textiles, and furniture from day one. Digital catalogues mean no piece is lost in the shuffle, even years after filming! Proper climate control, security and clear records and photographs ensure every asset is protected and ready, whether it’s for an exhibition, new production, or a landmark auction.

This isn’t just about compliance or ticking a sustainability box. For production professionals, often making quick decisions in pressured environments, reliable tracking and storage eliminate last-minute scrambles, safeguard investments, and support creative opportunities down the line.

 

Helping to preserve Downton Abbey’s legacy

Great shows like Downton Abbey rely on the meticulous work of designers and crew behind the scenes, from crafting intricate sets to designing period costumes and iconic props. The Downton Abbey auction highlights the importance of effective asset management in film & TV, showing what’s possible with proper planning, robust tracking platforms, and storage specialists who understand production demands.

“We’re proud to have managed many of Downton Abbey’s assets,” says Michelle French, Director of CAMA. “It’s exciting to see so many iconic props and costumes featured at the Bonhams auction. Preserving them honours the creativity of those involved and keeps their work inspiring. Effective asset management and storage means safeguarding our industry’s legacy for future generations”

The proceeds from the Downton Abbey auction at Bonhams are going to Together for Short Lives, a UK charity supporting children and families facing lifelimiting conditions. This auction, organised in partnership with Carnival Films, is not only a celebration of exceptional production design, costumes, and props, but also a powerful way to give back and make a difference beyond the screen.

 

Focus Features’ Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale is currently in cinemas and available to own or rent on digital platforms and follows the Crawley family and their staff as they enter the 1930s. When Mary finds herself at the centre of a public scandal and the family faces financial trouble, the entire household grapples with the threat of social disgrace. The Crawleys must embrace change as the staff prepares for a new chapter with the next generation leading Downton Abbey into the future. 

Thank you to Focus Features and Carnival Films for your support with this article and for providing the incredible images that help bring this story to life.

A special thanks to AssetFlow, our partner asset management platform, for tracking all the assets, and to our dedicated production team at CAMA for their meticulous work in looking after many of these props and costumes.