Someone has stolen a bronze life-size bust from the Dalhousie Art Centre in Halifax.

The bust of pianist Ellen Ballon, worth $7,000, was discovered missing Friday night after a routine security check.

Dalhousie University officials hope the thief doesn't melt the artwork down for the metal.

"I think it's a legitimate fear," said Charles Crosby, a university spokesman. "I would like to think that it would be a pretty hard piece to move on the black market, but you know the fact that it is made of a valuable material does give us some pause."

Crosby said anyone with information about the missing artwork should call Dalhousie security or Halifax Regional Police.