Shocking moment tourist shatters ‘Van Gogh' chair while posing for photos

Extra.ie​

8 hours ago

A tourist has caused significant damage to a delicate crystal-covered chair at an art museum in Verona, Italy, prompting a plea from the venue for visitors to 'respect art.'
The incident occurred at Palazzo Maffei, where the artwork – known as the 'Van Gogh' chair – was on display. Designed by Italian artist Nicola Bolla, the chair was encrusted with hundreds of Swarovski crystals.
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Tourist shatters 'Van Gogh' chair. Pic: Palazzo Maffei Verona/Facebook
Surveillance footage captured a couple waiting until a security guard left the room before approaching the artwork. The woman appeared to pose beside it while the man sat down, causing the fragile piece to shatter under his weight.
The pair quickly fled the scene, leaving the chair in pieces.
Palazzo Maffei shared the footage on Facebook, calling the act an 'irresponsible gesture' and describing the event as 'every museum's nightmare come true.'
In their post, museum staff explained: 'While waiting for the surveillance officers to step away, some visitors took what they considered a 'cool' photo. The result? Serious damage to Nicola Bolla's 'Van Gogh' chair – a very delicate work entirely covered in Swarovski crystals.'
Initially unsure whether restoration was even possible, the museum later confirmed the chair had been successfully repaired.
They added: 'A heartfelt thank you goes to the police, our security team, and the restorers whose expert work brought the piece back to life.'
'And to all who walk our halls every day with care and wonder, thank you. Because art isn't just for viewing. It's for loving. It's for protecting.'