Tourist damages crystal-covered 'Van Gogh' chair in Verona museum after climbing on it for photo
13 June 2025, 17:06
Shocking CCTV footage captures the moment a tourist sits on a delicate crystal-studded 'Van Gogh' chair, which buckles under his weight.
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Covered in hundreds of Swarovski crystals, the chair is housed in the Maffei Palace, Verona, and was named after the famous Dutch painter by its designer Nicola Bolla.
Italian media describe the chair as being "extremely fragile and delicate", but this did not stop the opportunist from seizing the moment for a unique photo.
Seeing that there was no security around, and disregarding the chair's condition, the man places himself on it while his female friend took the snap.
The woman had previously posed for pictures with the exhibit, leaning in front of the chair to create the illusion that she was sitting on it.
But the man took it one step further and placed his weight directly on the chair, which immediately bent back into the wall.
The pair then scurry out of the room, leaving the damaged chair behind them.
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❕L’incubo di ogni museo è diventato realtà, anche a Palazzo Maffei. Attesa l’uscita degli addetti alla sorveglianza,...
Posted by Palazzo Maffei Verona on Thursday, June 12, 2025
Following this "nightmare" situation, the museum's social media account released a statement, saying: "Every museum's nightmare has become reality, even in Palazzo Maffei.
"Waiting for the surveillance officers to come out, some visitors took an 'in effect' photo.
"The result? An irresponsible gesture caused serious damage to Nicola Bolla's "Van Gogh" chair, a very delicate work, covered entirely with hundreds of Swarovski crystals."
Because of the severity of the damage, the museum was initially unsure whether the artwork could be repaired.
But with the help of restorers and Italian law enforcement, the piece is now "shining once again".
They added: "We are sharing this episode not only for the sake of reporting, but to start a real campaign to raise awareness about the value of art and the respect it deserves.
"A heartfelt thank you goes to the police, our security department and the restaurateurs, whose valuable work allowed the recovery of the work.
"And a special thank you to all of you who walk through the museum halls every day with care, attention and wonder.
"Because art is not just for seeing. It is to be loved. It is to be protected."
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