Highland Council seeks export licence for £2.5 million bust

In the United Kingdom, a remarkable discovery has attracted attention regarding a valuable marble bust of Sir John Gordon, which is currently under the care of Highland Council. This sculpture, created by French artist Edmé Bouchardon in 1728, was originally purchased by Invergordon Town Council for just £5 in 1930. Although the bust enjoyed a history linked closely to the Gordon family, its whereabouts became uncertain over the decades, leading to its rediscovery in 1998, acting as a doorstop in Balintore, Scotland. As the high valuation of the bust came to light, Highland Council announced plans to sell the piece to benefit the local community fund, specifically for Invergordon. They have submitted an export licence application, a necessary step in the sale process due to the artwork's considerable value. The export licence application is particularly significant as it must undergo evaluation against the Waverley Criteria. This set of measures assesses whether the bust qualifies as a national treasure and if its sale to an overseas buyer would constitute a loss to the country. Highland Council has confirmed the application is part of the ongoing sale process and noted that the bust has not yet been sold. The council’s hope is that the artwork can raise approximately £2.5 million, which would be utilized for community projects in Invergordon. Historically, the bust was an important piece featured in Invergordon Castle, the ancestral home of the Gordon family, who played a prominent role in local land ownership and governance. Sir John Gordon was a notable figure, becoming a Member of Parliament in 1742, and his family owned vast tracts of land in Sutherland and Ross-shire. Community archives indicate that this piece was likely intended for public display at Invergordon Town Hall after its acquisition but sadly became mislaid, with many records regarding its history believed to have been lost during governmental reorganizations in the 1970s and 90s. The ongoing sale and export considerations of the bust have raised public interest and debate, particularly regarding the cultural implications of selling significant artworks abroad. As authorities navigate this process, the involvement of local government, historical context, and potential community benefit emphasizes the dual responsibilities of preserving cultural heritage while enabling financial support through art sales. Highland Council continues to engage with authorities and the public as they assess the best outcome for the bust and the community it represents.