Couple Destroys Crystal-Covered 'Van Gogh' Chair at Italian Museum

A shocking incident at the Palazzo Maffei museum in Verona, Italy, has sparked outrage after a tourist couple damaged a crystal-covered art installation. The piece, a modern interpretation of Vincent van Gogh's famous "Van Gogh's Chair," was adorned with hundreds of delicate Swarovski crystals.

Museum security footage reveals the couple lingering near the artwork, which was displayed on a pedestal with a clear sign instructing visitors not to touch it. Ignoring the warning, one of the tourists attempted to sit on the chair while the other prepared to take a photograph. The chair, unable to withstand the weight, promptly collapsed, shattering the crystals. The pair then quickly left the scene.

The museum has described the incident as "the nightmare of every museum" in a statement, emphasizing the importance of respecting art. Despite the damage, the "Van Gogh" chair, created by artist Nicola Bolla, has been meticulously restored and returned to its display within the museum.

The destroyed artwork is a contemporary take on Van Gogh's 1888 painting, depicting a simple chair on a terracotta floor, considered one of the artist's most recognizable images. The museum released the security footage not to shame the couple involved, whose identities remain unknown, but to initiate a broader discussion about respecting art in public spaces.

The museum stated, "Art must be respected!" hoping the incident will serve as a learning opportunity for all visitors.