THE powerful appeal of a good country house sale, and its effect on prices, was once again demonstrated earlier this month when Mealy's auctioned the contents of Kellsgrange in Kells, Co Meath. An Edwardian mahogany library bookcase, with broken pediment above three astragal glazed doors, went for £4,600, well over its pre sale estimate of £1,800-£2,500.

A kingwood and ormolu mounted lady's writing desk - one of a number of French pieces in this auction - surpassed its top estimate of £3,000 by a further £500. Similarly, a pair of large late 19th century Imari chargers, expected to sell for £1,800-£2,500, eventually fetched £3,200, and a French gilt metal mantel clock, with Sevres porcelain panels, made £3,100.

A Victorian walnut and marquetry credenza or side cabinet, with crossbanded top above a frieze, made £3,000. Both a William IV period mahogany telescopic dining table with two leaves and a set of 10 William IV bar back mahogany dining chairs fetched £2,800.

Other prices included: £2,600 for a kidney shaped brass bound wine cooler; £1,900 for both a 19th century Continental School pair of oval studies in ornate gilt frames and a 19th century ebonised bracket clock; and £1,800 for both a heavy Victorian cast iron garden seat and a French kingwood and gilt metal mounted secretaire a abattant.