Sometimes, old items found in scrap yards turn out to be worth much more than anyone could imagine. A startling case has emerged from England, where a roughly 300-year-old marble statue was discovered in a salvage yard.
Interestingly, the piece was crafted by the renowned Italian sculptor Pietro Bracchi, who was also associated with Rome's famous Trevi Fountain. The sculpture is now expected to fetch up to 1.1 million rupees at an upcoming auction.
A Rare Discovery in a Salvage Yard
According to reports, the incident took place in Wiltshire, England. A collector spotted a 27-inch-tall marble figure sitting in a salvage yard. At first glance, it appeared to be just an ordinary old marble piece, but closer inspection revealed its true significance.
The statue depicts Pope Clement XII and was sculpted by Pietro Bracchi in the 1730s, making it nearly three centuries old.
Connection to the Trevi Fountain
Pietro Bracchi was one of the leading Roman sculptors of the 18th century, best known for his work related to Rome's iconic Trevi Fountain. Finding a rare piece crafted by his hands is considered a major milestone for art historians and collectors alike.
Bracchi was commissioned by the Roman Senate to create a bronze portrait of Pope Clement XII to commemorate the Pope's contributions to the Capitoline Museums.
Bought for $400, Set for a Massive Payday
The most fascinating aspect is the valuation of the piece. Initially acquired for a mere $400 (approximately Rs 35,000) from the scrap yard, it is now estimated to sell between $6,635 and $13,270 (roughly Rs 5.8 lakh to Rs 11.7 lakh) at auction.
Experts describe the discovery as exceptionally thrilling, offering a rare glimpse into 18th-century papal court art and Roman history.
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