Withnail and I movie antiques beat estimates at Christie's auction

Antiques and art which appeared in British cult film Withnail and I performed well at Christie's Sunday Sale on July 31.

A mid-19^th century mahogany library table, valued at £3,000 to £5,000, realised £5,250, while three Victorian pine library ladders, estimated at a combined £800, achieved a substantial £2,250.

The fact that these pieces could be deemed "movie memorabilia" appears to have helped boost the price, such is the popularity for the film among fans and collectors.

"We did not factor in the Withnail and I link when valuing the lots," Christie's Kate McKenzine told the UK's Independent newspaper.

The antiques previously resided at West House in Chelsea, London, which was used as Uncle Monty's townhouse in the 1987 film.

The house is owned by Professor Bernard Nevill, the former design director of London fashion store Liberty.

The darkly comic depiction of two out of work British actors won the hearts of film-goers around the globe when it was released in 1987, and continues to entice a new generation to this day.

Withnail and I antiques attracted those with an eye for "shabby chic"

A portrait by a member of the Jonathan Richardson circle comfortably met its estimate with a £1,750 result, while a Victorian mahogany armchair almost doubled its estimate with a £2,375 showing.

It is not the first time Withnail and I related items have appeared on the market.

The Cumbrian farmhouse used as Uncle Monty's cottage in the film sold for £265,000 in 2009 - smashing the £145,000 estimate.

The Sunday Sale achieved £471,400 in all, against an expected £200,000.