A marble sculpture purchased for just $6 and used as a doorstop has now been put up for sale for over $3.2 million.
The sculpture, called the Bouchardon Bust, was created in the early 18th century by renowned French sculptor Edmé Bouchardon. It depicts John Gordon, a Scottish politician of that era, and was originally purchased by the Invergordon Town Council in the 1930s.
It was meant to be placed in the town hall but went missing after a fire in a nearby castle. For years, it was used to prop open a door at an industrial park until it was rediscovered in 1998.
According to a spokesperson for the Scottish Council, the local government that owns the sculpture sought court approval to sell it, and permission was granted. The court’s decision allowed the council to proceed with the sale.
An international buyer has expressed interest in the sculpture and made an offer through an auction house exceeding $3.2 million. The buyer has also promised to fund the creation of a high-quality replica, which will be displayed at the town council.
