In a small Easter Ross town, a seemingly ordinary marble bust bought by the Invergordon Town Council for a mere £5 in 1930 is now making headlines for a potentially staggering £3 million.

The sculpture, a creation of French artist Edmé Bouchardon in 1728, depicts Highland landowner Sir John Gordon and was later found casually propping open a shed door on an industrial estate in 1998. This unexpected turn of events could significantly benefit the town, as the Highland Council considers a bid from an overseas private buyer via auction company Sotheby's.

The Hidden Gem's Origins

Instagram | Historic Marble Bust of Sir John Gordon by Edmé Bouchardon.

Sir John Gordon, an influential MP with family ties to Easter Ross, had his legacy immortalized in this exquisite marble bust by Bouchardon. The artist, renowned for crafting sculptures for the gardens of the Palace of Versailles and the Fontaine des Quatre-Saisons in Paris, created this masterpiece around 200 years before it caught the eye of Invergordon Town Council.

Lost and Found: A Twist of Fate

The bust's journey took an unexpected twist when thought to be lost during local government reorganization, it surfaced as a door stop in an industrial estate in Balintore. This accidental discovery in 1998 added a touch of mystery and excitement to the tale of the forgotten masterpiece.

From Doorstop to Multi-Million Dollar Asset

Highland Council, now the custodian of this valuable artwork, has been approached with a bid exceeding £2.5 million, a significant increase from the estimated £1.4 million valuation last year. The decision on whether to sell the bust is pending, with the Easter Ross committee set to discuss the matter in their upcoming meeting.

Considerations and Community Involvement

Instagram | Invergordon Town Council's Artistic Legacy.

Officials emphasize the importance of considering all available information before deciding on the bust's fate. In a report to the committee, it is highlighted that seeking input from the Invergordon community is crucial. This inclusive approach aims to ensure that the decision aligns with the sentiments and interests of the residents.

• Community Voices Matter: Gathering opinions from the Invergordon community is a key step in the decision-making process.
• Sotheby's Expertise: Sotheby's, the renowned auction company, is ready to provide insights and answer any questions the committee may have.

A Cultural Dilemma: Keep or Sell?

While the potential windfall is tempting, concerns have been raised about the artwork potentially ending up overseas. Art historian Dr. Bendor Grosvenor advocates for alternative options, suggesting that the piece could be lent to local institutions such as the Inverness Museum or the National Galleries of Scotland.

• Preserving Local Heritage: Retaining the bust within Scotland ensures that the local community can continue to appreciate and benefit from its historical significance.
• Cultural Contribution: lending the artwork to museums allows a broader audience to engage with the cultural heritage it represents.

Historical Controversy and Present-Day Decision

This is not the first time the bust has stirred controversy. About nine years ago, discussions about selling it led to disagreements, with concerns raised about the community's claim being bequeathed the artwork in the 1920s. As the committee contemplates the recent bid, it must navigate through historical claims and current financial considerations.

Instagram | J Paul Getty Museum Exhibition: Invergordon's Artistry.

• Community Legacy: Past disputes highlight the emotional and historical connection the community feels toward the artwork.
• Financial Considerations: The potential windfall from the sale could be a significant boost to the local economy, funding projects through the Invergordon Common Good Fund.

From Paris to Storage: The Bust's Journey

In 2016, the marble bust embarked on an international tour, exhibited at the Louvre in Paris and the J Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles. Today, it resides in Highland Council storage, awaiting its next chapter.

The Easter Ross committee is getting together to talk about what should happen to this surprising discovery. The people in the town are anxious, waiting to find out what decision will be made. This choice could change what happens next for them. Whether the statue stays as a reminder of their history or turns into something valuable, that £5 statue has become a big deal for the whole town.