The Palazzo Maffei in Verona, Italy, has issued a heartfelt plea for art appreciation after an unfortunate incident involving a crystal-encrusted chair, designed by artist Nicola Bolla. The incident, which was captured on CCTV, shows a couple attempting to take playful photographs by pretending to sit on the chair, ultimately leading to the man crashing down onto it and breaking the fragile piece.
Director Vanessa Carlon expressed her disappointment over the couple leaving the museum without acknowledging the damage, highlighting the cultural responsibility that comes with visiting such spaces. "Sometimes we lose our brains to take a picture, and we don't think about the consequences," Carlon reflected, noting that while the incident was accidental, the couple's departure without a word was disheartening.
The chair, named after Vincent van Gogh, is adorned with hundreds of Swarovski crystals and serves as a tribute to the artist's iconic work. Although the museum refrained from valuing the piece, it is considered invaluable due to its unique craftsmanship and artistry.
Art historian Carlotta Menegazzo explained that while the chair appears sturdy, it is primarily hollow and held together with delicate materials. Notably, a warning sign was placed on the chair and it was positioned on a pedestal to discourage touch. Following the incident, two legs and the chair’s main seat were severely damaged, but restorative efforts have successfully returned it to its place in the museum.
Despite this setback, Carlon remains hopeful that this incident won't tarnish the reputation of the museum. She emphasizes the importance of visitors treating art galleries and similar venues with reverence and care. "Art must be respected and loved because it is very fragile," Carlon concluded, reiterating the museum's commitment to cultural stewardship while encouraging patrons to uphold a respectful demeanor during their visits.
Director Vanessa Carlon expressed her disappointment over the couple leaving the museum without acknowledging the damage, highlighting the cultural responsibility that comes with visiting such spaces. "Sometimes we lose our brains to take a picture, and we don't think about the consequences," Carlon reflected, noting that while the incident was accidental, the couple's departure without a word was disheartening.
The chair, named after Vincent van Gogh, is adorned with hundreds of Swarovski crystals and serves as a tribute to the artist's iconic work. Although the museum refrained from valuing the piece, it is considered invaluable due to its unique craftsmanship and artistry.
Art historian Carlotta Menegazzo explained that while the chair appears sturdy, it is primarily hollow and held together with delicate materials. Notably, a warning sign was placed on the chair and it was positioned on a pedestal to discourage touch. Following the incident, two legs and the chair’s main seat were severely damaged, but restorative efforts have successfully returned it to its place in the museum.
Despite this setback, Carlon remains hopeful that this incident won't tarnish the reputation of the museum. She emphasizes the importance of visitors treating art galleries and similar venues with reverence and care. "Art must be respected and loved because it is very fragile," Carlon concluded, reiterating the museum's commitment to cultural stewardship while encouraging patrons to uphold a respectful demeanor during their visits.
