The Bouchardon Bust: A Forgotten Masterpiece Rediscovered
In a small town in Scotland, a forgotten masterpiece has been rediscovered and is set to fetch millions at auction. The marble bust, created by the renowned French sculptor Edmé Bouchardon in the 18th century, was originally purchased by the Invergordon Town Council for a mere £5 around 1930. However, its significance was lost over the years, and by 1998, the valuable artwork was being used as a doorstop in a shed.
Bouchardon, considered a pioneer of Neoclassicism, was known for his exquisite works inspired by ancient Greek and Roman art. Among his notable creations are the Fountain of the Four Seasons and Cupid Cutting His Bow From the Club of Hercules. The bust in question depicts John Gordon, an influential local landowner believed to be the founder of Invergordon.
John Gordon, a member of a prominent Scottish landowning family, crossed paths with Bouchardon in Rome during his European travels as a young man. It was in 1728 that the talented artist immortalized Gordon in marble, a sculpture that eventually found its way to the Gordon family’s Invergordon Castle.
After being purchased by the Invergordon Town Council, the bust was intended for display at the town hall but was sadly misplaced over the years. It wasn’t until the late ’90s that councilor Maxine Smith stumbled upon the artwork while searching through storage. Ignoring the piece at first, it was later recognized for its value and brought to the attention of the Highland Council.
Since its rediscovery, the Bouchardon Bust has been loaned to prestigious institutions such as the Louvre in Paris and the Getty Museum in Los Angeles. Recently, a mystery buyer has expressed interest in acquiring the bust for a staggering £2.5 million, with plans to commission a replica for display in Invergordon.
The sale of the bust has been met with some controversy and deliberation among local officials, but ultimately, the decision to sell has been approved. The proceeds from the sale will benefit Invergordon, providing an opportunity for the community and visitors to appreciate the history and significance of the original artwork for years to come.
As councilor Lyndsey Johnston aptly puts it, the sale of the Bouchardon Bust will not only secure a valuable investment for Invergordon but also ensure that the legacy of John Gordon and the artistry of Edmé Bouchardon are preserved and celebrated for generations to come.
