A sculpture with an estimated value of $3 millionwhich was used for years as door stop on an industrial site in Scotlandis expected to be sold, subject to court approval. The sculpture, the “Bouchardon Bust“, was created at the beginning of the 18th century by the French sculptor Edmé Bouchardon and depicts John Gordon, an important figure and founder of the town of Invergordon.
Originally, in 1930, it was purchased by Invergordon Town Council for its local exhibition, but was ultimately never displayed and was found in 1998 to be used to hold a door open. In 2016, the bust was loaned to the Louvre Museum and in 2017 to the Getty Museum in Los Angeles, generating great interest in collectors’ circles.
In the latest development, a private collector has offered over £2.5 million to purchase the work, with a commitment to fund the creation of an exact replica for the local community. The City Council has launched a public consultation, and after the court’s approval, it is expected to decide whether the work will be designated a “national treasure” – a fact that could limit its export abroad, according to the Waverley criteria.
The discovery of this sculpture and the current process of selling it shed light on the history and significance of the work for local and national heritage.
Source: CNN
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How can communities balance the preservation of cultural heritage with the economic opportunities presented by selling valuable artifacts?
Clears throat
Welcome back to the show. Joining us today is Dr. Fiona Sinclair, art historian and author of “Forgotten Treasures: Hidden Masterpieces in Unexpected Places”. Dr. Sinclair, a Bouchardon bust used as a doorstop? Your thoughts?
Dr. Sinclair: Well, this is certainly a fascinating case. It raises important questions about how we value art, its accessibility, and ultimately, who gets to decide its fate. On one hand, it’s amazing that this historically significant piece was rediscovered and is now generating such interest. On the other hand, the thought of it sitting neglected for so long, even misused, is quite jarring.
Is this a win for Invergordon or a loss for the community to see such a valuable piece leave town, even if a replica is promised?
