A model Temple of Poseidon, made of cork, has been sold by Sworders Fine Art Auctioneers for a surprising price of £25,000– approximately 50 times its guiding price of £400 to £600. Measuring 63.5cms long, 28cms deep and 18cms high, it was sold at the Spring Country House Sale on March 4.

The cork model was made in the 19th Century, and is thought to have been made to enable architecture students to examine building design without having to travel abroad to witness such constructions first hand. Sworders' director, John Black, said: "The sale price went way beyond our expectations…There was interest in the room, as well as nine telephone bids from both Italy and England, eventually selling to a UK dealer. It’s a phenomenal result!"