A marble sculpture originally bought for just $6 and used as a doorstop is set to generate significant excitement, as it may fetch over $3 million at auction. The bust, named the “Bouchardon Bust,” was created by renowned French sculptor Edmé Bouchardon in 1728. It depicts Sir John Gordon, a Scottish politician recognized as one of the founders of the town of Inverness.
The tale of this bust begins all the way back to 1930 when it was acquired by the local council for the tiny Scottish town of Inverness. Over the years, its value remained obscured as it was misplaced, primarily sitting unnoticed for decades. That all changed dramatically when the bust was spotted by local councilor Maxine Smith, propped open against the door of a shed at Balintore Industrial Park. The incident occurred back in 1998, and it highlighted how art can vanish from public view, only to reappear under the most mundane circumstances.
The Highland Council now oversees the bust, which is more than just another piece of historical art. It has been on a somewhat tumultuous path, including previous loans to notable institutions such as the Louvre Museum in Paris, which showcased it briefly in 2016, and the Getty Museum in Los Angeles the next year. Yet, due to its rising appraisal value, the council opted to store the bust instead of displaying it permanently, citing the high costs associated with insurance.
Recently, the local Highland Council obtained approval from the Tain Sheriff Court to sell this magnificent piece of history after consulting the local community. No objections were raised during the hearing, paving the way for what could become one of the most profitable art sales for the region. The approval came after the council disclosed they had received offers exceeding $3 million from private overseas buyers, including one anonymous offer submitted to Sotheby's, highlighting just how sought after this sculpture has become.
What makes the Bouchardon Bust particularly notable is its rich history intertwined with the social and political fabric of Scotland. While it sits as an extraordinary art piece, it also serves as a reminder of the region’s cultural heritage – particularly how items can remain hidden and discontinued from public acknowledgment until their true worth is revealed. Sir John Gordon, for whom the bust was modeled, was intrinsically linked to the town of Inverness, and this piece of art captures not only his likeness but also the spirit of the era it hails from.
After lengthy discussions and evaluations, the council members concluded selling the sculpture is the best course of action, citing it would provide significant funding to the local community. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the Inverness Common Good Fund, which is dedicated to civic projects enhancing local life.
The idea of selling national treasures such as the Bouchardon Bust naturally stirs debate. According to the Highland Council, following last week’s court decision, legal discussions will commence to determine whether this bust qualifies as cultural property under what is known as the Waverley Criteria. If deemed so, it could face restrictions on overseas exportation, illustrating the challenges frequently faced when it pertains to safeguarding national heritage.
The artwork's projected sale marks not just the culmination of the bust's long and winding path from being dismissed as mere decor to recognition as significant art. It also shines a spotlight on issues concerning heritage, art ownership, and the value of historical objects. This captivating narrative intertwines the past and present, showcasing how art can captivate hearts and wallets alike.
With the sale imminent and buzz growing around this historic bust, many are eagerly anticipating how much the auction will raise. If its previous life as a doorstop story is any indicator, the Bouchardon Bust will not only leave its shadows behind but may also redefine what we find valuable – both culturally and financially.
Regardless of the final auction outcome, the story of this marble bust encapsulates not just the inherent value of art but also the questions surrounding its preservation, ownership, and the narratives rooted deeply within the communities it serves. The excitement surrounding this once-forgotten doorstop highlights the allure of art and how, sometimes, beauty and history can transform seemingly ordinary objects from oblivion to magnificence.
