A VERY large 19th century, carved oak bookcase was the top selling lot at John Dunphy's sale in Six-mile Bridge, Co Clare, earlier this week, fetching £5,800 under the hammer. In the same sale a set of 12 Victorian mahogany dining chairs made £4,400 and a set of four 19th century English giltwood armchairs sold for £1,950.

The governess trap featured in last week's column was knocked down at £950, while a 19th century open carriage made £1,275; six William IV dining chairs fetched £1,250; and six 19th century Irish inlaid chairs sold for £1,000.