Overview
- The painting sustained visible scratches in its lower unvarnished paint layer after a child brushed against it during an unsupervised moment at Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen.
- Museum officials confirmed the damage was accidental and not an act of vandalism, with the artwork now moved to the conservation lab for treatment research.
- Experts estimate restoration costs could range between $50,000 and $150,000, highlighting the challenges of repairing unvarnished modern artworks.
- The incident has reignited discussions about the risks of open-access display policies, which prioritize public engagement but expose artworks to potential damage.
- The museum has not disclosed valuation, security, or insurance details, citing standard European museum policies, but the painting is estimated to be worth $50 to $60 million.