Context:

A couple visiting the Palazzo Maffei in Verona accidentally damaged a crystal-covered chair by Italian artist Nicola Bolla, known as the 'Van Gogh' chair, after the man slipped and fell on it. Despite the chair being on a pedestal and accompanied by a warning not to touch, the couple took pictures pretending to sit on it before the incident occurred and subsequently left the museum without notifying staff. The museum director, Vanessa Carlon, emphasized the need for respect towards art, highlighting the fragility and priceless nature of such pieces. The chair, covered in Swarovski crystals and built as a tribute to Van Gogh's painting, suffered damage to two legs and the seat but has since been restored. The museum hopes the incident will serve as a reminder for visitors to honor and protect the art displayed within cultural spaces like museums and churches.

Dive Deeper:

• The Palazzo Maffei in Verona released footage of a man and woman damaging the 'Van Gogh' chair while taking pictures, after which they fled the scene without notifying museum staff.

• Nicola Bolla created the 'Van Gogh' chair, adorned with Swarovski crystals, as a tribute to the simple chair depicted in Vincent van Gogh's paintings, and it is considered a priceless piece by the museum.

• Despite appearing sturdy, the chair's hollow frame was kept intact with foil and placed on a pedestal with a warning not to touch, yet this did not prevent the incident from occurring.

• Museum director Vanessa Carlon expressed disappointment over the couple's actions, emphasizing that while accidents happen, leaving without reporting the damage was irresponsible and disrespectful.

• After the incident, the museum focused on restoring the damaged chair, which had its main seat and two legs broken, and it has now been returned to display, highlighting the importance of respecting fragile art.

• The Palazzo Maffei, which houses 650 pieces including works by Picasso and ancient Egyptian art, opened in 2020 and is committed to fostering a respectful environment for art appreciation.

• Carlotta Menegazzo, an art historian at the museum, reiterated the necessity for visitors to treat art with care and mindfulness, underlining the museum's hope that the released footage will not overshadow its cultural contributions.