The sculpture, Nova: Moon Eclipsing the Sun, is the first piece by the artist to ever appear at auction.

It is believed the galvanised steel piece was created around seven years ago as a model, or maquette, for a larger project that did not go ahead.

The two-metre high piece, which depicts a female with outstretched hands grasping two hoops, is expected to fetch between £4000 and £5000.

It will go under the hammer at McTear's Auctioneers in Glasgow on Sunday as part of their Scottish Contemporary Art Auction.

Mr Scott is known for his public art, including the Heavy Horse on the M8 between Glasgow and Edinburgh.

The sculptor has produced galvanised steel, fibreglass and cast bronze pieces for clients the world over.

He has most recently designed two Kelpie heads for the Helix project in Falkirk, which will be turned into 30-high stainless steel-plated structures.

The mythical water horses will sit at the eastern entrance to the Forth and Clyde Canal as part of a £41million development scheme.

Natasha Raskin, from McTear's, said: "Andy Scott is one of Scotland's most prominent sculptors and we are delighted to have one of his pieces in the sale.

"He is known for creating striking works on a grand scale and it is very unusual to find a piece this size by the artist."