Overview

• Security footage released on June 12 shows a man and woman posing next to the Swarovski crystal–covered chair before the man sits and collapses it under his weight.
• The chair, inspired by Van Gogh’s 1888 painting and created by Italian artist Nicola Bolla, was displayed on a pedestal with clear warnings against touching.
• The tourists fled without reporting the damage to museum staff, prompting a police complaint while their identities remain unknown.
• Conservators successfully repaired the broken legs and seat of the artwork, and the piece is now back on display at the Palazzo Maffei.
• Museum director Vanessa Carlon said the incident underscores the need for greater respect for art and cultural heritage in public spaces.