The Free Democratic Party (FDP) will retain a bronze bust of its first chairman and former Federal President, Theodor Heuss, although through a loan agreement. Following the party’s failure to reach the five percent threshold in 2013, the artwork was initially sold at auction as part of a liquidation of its parliamentary group. The sale at the time caused significant discussion and disappointment for the artist, Gregor Dittmer, when the bust ultimately fetched €10,000.
When the FDP regained parliamentary representation in 2017, the then-owners permitted the bust to be displayed in the party’s parliamentary group room.
Now, a new arrangement has been reached to relocate the artwork to the FDP’s central headquarters. The bust will be placed prominently near the entrance to the main conference hall within the Hans-Dietrich-Genscher-Haus, ensuring maximum visibility and recognition.
Christian Dürr, the current FDP leader, welcomed the agreement, stating that Theodor Heuss represents a crucial foundation of liberal principles within the country. The loan agreement allows the party to preserve a significant piece of its history and legacy.
