Despite calls to withdraw the busts of two Aboriginal leaders from an upcoming sale, Sotheby's says the auction will go on.

The 1836 busts of Tasmanian Aboriginal leaders Woureddy and his wife, Truganini, are expected to fetch $700,000 at Monday’s auction in Melbourne. The sale is being opposed by Aboriginal activist Michael Mansel and Nick McKim, leader of the Tasmanian Greens political party, who want the busts returned to the Tasmanian Aboriginal community. A Sotheby's spokeswoman said the sculptures are only one pair of multiple sets held at numerous art galleries and institutions. They were on loan to the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery for many years and have been on display in Australia's National Portrait Gallery, she added. But McKim says the state and federal governments should purchase the works and give them back to the Aboriginal community if they are not withdrawn from Monday’s sale.