By A piece of cinematic history was auctioned off as the white linen shirt worn by Colin Firth in the 1995 adaptation of “Pride and Prejudice” found a new owner, fetching a price far beyond expectations.
The Famous Shirt
The shirt gained notoriety in a scene where Colin Firth’s character, Mr. Darcy, emerged from a lake, soaked and transparent, captivating audiences and solidifying Firth’s status as a sex symbol.
Auction Details
The auction, organized by BAFTA and Cosprop, included 69 costumes from various films, but the shirt stole the spotlight. Initially estimated to sell for £7,000 to £10,000, it surpassed expectations, fetching £25,000 ($31,700).
Cultural Impact
The shirt’s influence extends beyond the screen, with Queen Camilla even visiting it during an exhibition at Jane Austen’s House museum in 2022. Designed by Dinah Collin, the shirt became an unexpected sensation, propelling Firth into the realm of sex symbols.
Origin of the Scene
Contrary to popular belief, the scene wasn’t originally scripted. It was devised as a workaround for on-screen nudity restrictions, resulting in an iconic moment that resonated with audiences worldwide.
A Symbol of Cinematic History
The sale of the shirt signifies its enduring significance in popular culture, allowing a new owner to cherish it as a cherished relic of cinematic history.
