Created in 1728 by the French master Edmé Bouchardon, the marble likeness depicts a young Sir John Gordon during his Grand Tour in Rome. It is a rare masterpiece, being one of only two classicising busts of British sitters by the sculptor.

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For two centuries, it remained with the Gordon family at Invergordon Castle. After the estate was sold, Invergordon Town Council purchased the bust for just £5 at an auction in 1930. 

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It was exhibited at the Louvre and the Getty Museum, revealing its true significance.

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As of 2026, the bust is valued at over £3 million. It is currently under a temporary UK export bar to prevent its sale to overseas buyers, as heritage experts and the Highland Council debate its future.​​

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Currently, the bust is being housed at Sotheby’s London.

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OUR FIGHT TO KEEP THE BUST IN THE UK:​

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Our Open Letter to the Press, Members of Parliament, Members of the Scottish Parliament, and Elected Members of The Highland Council - 9 March 2026

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Statement of Case - Valuation Discrepancy and the Public Interest - 27 March 2026

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Formal Proposal - The Retention and Stewardship of the Bouchardon Bust of Sir John Gordon - 27 March 2026​​​

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Petition by Jane Mackinnon "Stop this Scandalous Amputation of our Scottish Heritage"